The External Affairs Ministry has said that the opening of Farakka barrage gates allowing the flow of water downstream of the river in its natural course into the Ganga and Padma rivers is normal seasonal development.
In response to media queries regarding Farakka barrage, the Official Spokesperson, Shri Randhir Jaiswal said,
'We have seen media reports of the opening of Farakka barrage gates that will allow the flow of over 11 lakh cusecs of water downstream of the river in its natural course into the Ganga/Padma river.
This is a normal seasonal development that takes place due to increased inflow from heavy rainfall in the Ganga river basin catchment areas upstream.
It is to be understood that Farakka is only a barrage and not a dam. Whenever, water level reaches the pond level, whatever inflow comes that passes. It is merely a structure to divert 40,000 cusecs of water into the Farakka canal that is carefully done using a system of gates on the main Ganga/Padma river, while the balance water flows into the main river to Bangladesh.
Data, as per protocol, is shared with the concerned Joint River Commission officials in Bangladesh on a regular and timely basis. It has been done this time as well.
We have seen fake videos, rumours and fear mongering to create misunderstanding. This should be firmly countered with facts.'
