Rivers Beyond Borders

Environmental Sustainability in South Asia's Transboundary Waters

Mehebub Sahana editor

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:22nd Apr '26

£130.00

Supplier delay - available to order, but may take longer than usual.

Rivers Beyond Borders cover

This book explores the intricate challenges and potential solutions in managing transboundary rivers in South Asia, a densely populated and ecologically diverse region. It examines the significant impacts of the growing climate crisis, disaster risks, population growth, and socio-political conflicts on transboundary river basins, which pose substantial risks to large areas of the Global South. The book highlights the critical need for multi-sectoral, multi-disciplinary, and cross-country perspectives to formulate collaborative policies that support sustainable development goals. Through specific case studies, the book addresses hydro-politics and flood hazards in countries like India, China, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

Features

  • Provides a holistic explanation of transboundary water governance and integrates perspectives from environmental science, geography, hydrology, political science, international relations studies, law, water governance and sociology
  • Includes detailed case studies and practical examples from different countries to help understand theoretical concepts through real-world scenarios
  • Utilizes advanced technologies such as machine learning, AI, and deep learning for data analysis and predictive modelling and provides cutting-edge tools for predicting water-related challenges and improving management strategies
  • Incorporates spatial maps and geostatistical diagrams to visually enhance comprehension of complex data analysis and spatial relationships
  • Features contributions by renowned scholars, policymakers, and practitioners in the field of water governance, providing cutting-edge research, expert analyses, and authoritative perspectives

Rivers Beyond Borders is an excellent reference for students, researchers, and academics in environmental science, geography, hydrology, political science, law, sociology, and South Asian studies; policymakers, government officials, and professionals in water resource management and international relations; and practitioners in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international development agencies, and environmental advocacy groups.

"...River ecosystems and their diverse cultural values are under assault by large infrastructure and indiscriminate pollution. Yet, a group of insightful and committed researchers, professionals, and activists led by Dr. Mehebub Sahana have systematically traced out innovative responses to these and future challenges for the Ganga, Brahmaputra, Indus, and other rivers rising from the Himalayas and watering South Asia. This volume represents a major step forward and is a must read."

- Prof. Christopher Scott, Pennsylvania State University, USA

"Disaster-centric discourse on climate change prevails despite [the book's] interdisciplinary and intersectoral character. Locals are the first victims and first responders to such disasters. They absorb shocks yet their capacity to manage is constrained by visible laggardness in terms of knowledge, technology, forewarning systems and institutional distances. National policymaking must start with local communities and geographies."

- Prof. Mahendra P Lama, JNU and former member, National Security Advisory Board, Government of India

"...In this volatile period, the book offers a valuable contribution by promoting scientific knowledge, countering mis- and disinformation, and encouraging peaceful coexistence among countries that share millennia of cultural ties. It reinforces the idea that water is fundamentally a cultural rather than a technical element, and that hydro-diplomacy should serve as a tool for peace, dignity, and shared prosperity."

- Prof. Bayes Ahmed, University College London (UCL), UK

"This piece of work beautifully weaves together scientific arena that supports political diplomacy focusing on riverine communities. It also reminds that in addition to physical landscapes rivers are shared lifelines that support livelihood, shape cultures, sustain ecosystems, and connect nations.... The methodological clarity and depth of research, and the empathy with which it approaches complex environmental governance challenges make it an inspiring and essential to read."

- Janak Raj Joshi, Executive Director, Land Management Training Centre, Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation, Government of Nepal

"Transboundary river basin management is a critical and urgent area of research, vital for environmental sustainability, sovereignty, diplomacy, and peace in South Asia. Dr. Mehebub Sahana’s book addresses this urgency comprehensively, offering a forward-looking perspective that integrates multi-sectoral, multidisciplinary, and collaborative approaches. By combining technological innovations and data-driven insights with sustainable development agendas, the book provides practical and visionary solutions for transboundary water challenges..."

- Dr. Md. Nazmul Islam, High Commissioner (Ambassador), Designate of Bangladesh to the Maldives, Government of Bangladesh

ISBN: 9781032986296

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 770g

314 pages