Source: The Teesta River has its source at Tso Lhamo Lake, located in the Himalayas, in proximity to the Pahurni and Khangse glaciers within the Sikkim region.
States Traversed: The river flows through the Indian states of Sikkim and West Bengal.
Tributaries:
- Left-bank Tributaries: These include Lachung Chhu, Chakung Chhu, Dik Chhu, Rani Khola, and Rangpo Chhu.
- Right-bank Tributaries: Notable tributaries on this side are Zemu Chhu, Rangyong Chhu, and the Rangit River.
Termination Point: The Teesta River converges with the Brahmaputra River (known as Jamuna) in Bangladesh.
Distinctive Characteristics:
- Importance for Agriculture and Hydropower: The river's flow is essential for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation in both India and Bangladesh.
- Risks of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF): The river is susceptible to sudden floods caused by glacial lakes, highlighted by the catastrophic events in Sikkim in 2023.
- Contentious Water Sharing: The water-sharing agreement regarding the Teesta has been a longstanding issue between India and Bangladesh, influencing their diplomatic relations.
