Geography Prelims Plus
Why is in news? Ministry of Power reviews impact of flash floods in Teesta Basin, Sikkim on Central Hydro Power Projects
Teesta river is a major right bank tributary of the Brahmaputra (known as Jamuna in Bangladesh), flowing through India and Bangladesh.
It originates in the Himalayas near the Tso Lhamo Lake, in Sikkim and flows to the south through West Bengal before entering Bangladesh.
Pahurni glacier, Khangse glacier and ChhoLhamo Lake are also considered the sources of the Teesta River.
The major portion of the river basin lies in India and only 17% of it is in Bangladesh.
The river joins the Brahmaputra in Bangladesh before it flows into the Bay of Bengal after meeting with the Ganges and the Meghna.
Two major large barrages constructed on Teesta – Gajoldoba in West Bengal, India and Duani in Bangladesh.
Left-bank Tributaries: Lachung Chhu, Chakung Chhu, Dik Chhu, Rani Khola and Rangpo Chhu.
Right-bank Tributaries: Zemu Chhu, Rangyong Chhu and Rangit River.
Teesta river water conflict is one of the most contentious issues between India and Bangladesh.