Bhutan’s glaciers and water sources are under threat from climate change, endangering 240 million people in the Himalayas and 1.6 billion downstream, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay warned at the second Paro Forum 2025.
Bhutan possesses abundant water resources, with 700 glaciers feeding 567 glacial lakes, which, in turn, flow into numerous streams, five major and five minor river systems, and many springs. In total, the country has 7,399 water sources.
According to the Prime Minister, Bhutan’s water system generates 72 million cubic meters of water annually, with a per capita availability of 95,000 cubic meters—one of the highest in the world. This vast water reserve has the potential to produce over 30,000 megawatts of electricity.
Bhutan’s water is highly commodified and financialised, while the human rights to water and sanitation are not high on the governments agenda. Water for Bhutan’s government seems to be mainly money and power.
Read:
- The paradox of Bhutan’s water crisis. ANN – Asia News Network, February 2025
- Looming water crisis for millions in Bhutan? ANN – Asia News Network, February 2025
- Small Development Project Delivers Lifeline to Thirsty Villages. Bhutan Today.
- Strengthening Community Water Management and Governance in Bhutan. Bhutan Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, April 2025
- Adani: 5,000 MW Of Hydropower Projects In Bhutan Represents Strong Ties With The Himalayan Country. Free Press Journal (India), May 2025
