The Union Cabinet has approved the inclusion of Bihar’s Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana – Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (PMKSY-AIBP). This ₹6,282.32 crore project aims to enhance irrigation and flood management in Bihar by diverting surplus water from the Kosi River to the Mahananda basin. The project is scheduled for completion by March 2029, with ₹3,652.56 crore provided as central assistance.
Key Objectives
- Remodelling the existing Eastern Kosi Main Canal (EKMC) up to 41.30 km and extending it to the Mechi River at 117.50 km.
- Diversion of approximately 2,050 million cubic metres of surplus water from the Kosi River to the Mahananda basin during monsoons.
Impact on Agriculture
- Provides additional irrigation to 2,10,516 hectares of farmland across Araria, Purnea, Kishanganj, and Katihar districts during the Kharif season.
- Restores irrigation shortfalls for 1.57 lakh hectares currently served by the EKMC system.
- Boosts agricultural productivity and alleviates water scarcity in the region.
Policy Context
The project is part of the broader PMKSY-AIBP initiative launched in 2015-16 to expand irrigation coverage and improve water conservation efforts. Since April 2016, 63 projects have been completed under this programme, creating an additional irrigation potential of 26.11 lakh hectares. The Kosi-Mechi project is the tenth initiative included under AIBP since 2021.
Regional and Strategic Importance
- The project will enhance flood management capabilities in Bihar.
- It aligns with India’s commitment to sustainable water management and agricultural development.
- Discussions with Nepal have been undertaken regarding cross-border water management implications.
This initiative represents a critical step towards improving rural livelihoods in Bihar through enhanced irrigation infrastructure and better utilisation of water resources.
