Why In News?
The Union government initiated physical construction on Phase 1 of the Kosi-Mechi river linking project at the Bhenga river in Birpur, Bihar.
What is the Kosi–Mechi Intra-State Link Project?
The Kosi–Mechi Intra-State Link Project is an intra-basin river-linking project in Bihar that diverts surplus floodwater from the Kosi River to the Mechi River through a link canal, improving irrigation while reducing flood risks in North Bihar.
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Kosi River: Originating in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, flowing through Nepal before entering Bihar. It is a major left-bank tributary of the Ganga and is popularly known as the "Sorrow of Bihar" due to frequent floods and heavy sediment load.
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Mechi River: Originates in the Mahabharat Range of eastern Nepal, forms part of the India–Nepal border, and is a tributary of the Mahananda River, which joins the Ganga.
It involves the remodelling of the existing Eastern Kosi Main Canal (EKMC) and construction of a 76.2 km new link canal extending up to the Mechi River.
The project is being implemented under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana–Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (PMKSY–AIBP).
Significance of the Project
Strengthens Irrigation Security: Provides assured irrigation during the Kharif season, reducing dependence on erratic monsoon rainfall.
Enhances Agricultural Productivity: Reliable irrigation supports higher cropping intensity, better yields and increased farm incomes in the Seemanchal region.
Mitigates Flood Risk: Diverts excess water from the flood-prone Kosi, helping reduce flood intensity in vulnerable districts of North Bihar.
Promotes Rural Development: Improved irrigation boosts agricultural employment, strengthens the rural economy and enhances livelihood security.
Improves Climate Resilience: Converts seasonal floodwater into a productive irrigation resource, improving Bihar's resilience to increasing climate variability.
Supports Integrated Water Resources Management: Demonstrates efficient utilisation of surplus basin water through intra-state river linking under the National Perspective Plan.
Source: PIB
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. "River-linking projects seek to address regional imbalances in water availability but also raise ecological and governance concerns." Discuss. 150 words |
