ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the basin hydrological and ecological characteristics of the Ganges Dependent Area (GDA) in which Chapra is located, noting how government interventions such as the Farakka Barrage and the Flood Action Plan have undermined the ability of the GDA to provide essential ecosystem services to the majority of its residents. The data presented in the chapter demonstrates that the current government approach is not sustainable when evaluated in relationship to the ecosystems and services on which the majority of households depend for their livelihoods. The chapter focuses on the GDA but more specifically on the Gorai River, one outlet of the Ganges in the southwest zone, and on Chapra village in Kushtia, which is located alongside the Gorai. The Farakka Barrage diversion from the Ganges Basin creates major challenges for water and agriculture management in the GDA of Bangladesh.
