A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of engineering and Technology

Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2001

In the developing world, poverty alleviation and better quality of life through sustainable development remain the main challenges for the next century. Bangladesh is in such situation and has been chosen as a case study where IWRM process is being implemented. The great variability in the rainfall pattern is a real challenge, which this country has to face today but makes Bangladesh situation unique for an IWRM approach. The main objective of this thesis is to formulate a guideline for IWRM for Bangladesh situation. Six water sector components are reviewed: water sector assessment in Bangladesh, water policy and strategy, institutional framework, water legislation and standards, water allocation, and functions and values of water resources. Questionnaires and interviews of concerned individuals in the water sector evaluate the point of view of Bangladesh on IWRM process. The modelling work of the thesis develop different scenarios on water resources management and assess present and future impacis of planned projects onto the water system such as the Ganges Barrage or the Gorai offtake dredging. The thesis advocates the creation of a co-ordinating body at the watershed level to help the decentralisation process and people's participation. It recommends three case studies, India, Nepal and Bhutan, to help in building a regional co-operation framework.