They also stressed the need for developing good relations with neighbouring countries by avoiding extreme communal attitudes.

The discussion on 'International rivers and water problem: Nature of dispute and its solution' was organised by the Workers Party of Bangladesh at the National Press Club in the city.

The speakers criticised the government for failing to ensure due share of Bangladesh to international rives saying the ruling coalition wants to achieve political gains by creating anti-Indian sentiment.

They, however, called for united stand against India's river-linking project which will have a devastating impact on Bangladesh.

The construction of a dam on the river Barak at Tipaimukh by India will also affect the north-eastern region badly, they added.

Awami League presidium member Abdur Razzak said the Ganges Barrage at Pangsha is a must to meet the water crisis that the southern region is now facing.

Prof Mozaffar Ahmed stressed the need for regional as well as international cooperation to ensure water availability.

Presided over by Workers Party President Rashed Khan Menon, the discussion was also participated by Economic Association President Dr Qazi Kholiquzzaman, Gono Forum General Secretary Saifuddin Ahmed Manik, Communist Party of Bangladesh General Secretary Mujahidul Islam Selim, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal President Hasanul Huq Inu, Workers Party General Secretary Bimal Biswas, Buet water expert Prof Mohammad Ali Bhuiyan and Dr Akhtar Sobhan Masrur.