- The Central Government has approved Bihar's ambitious Kosi-Mechi link project under the Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP) of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY).
- A target has been set to complete this project—which has a remaining cost of approximately ₹6,143.22 crore—by March 2029.
- Its primary objective is to divert surplus water from the Kosi River to the Mechi River, thereby optimizing water usage, expanding irrigation facilities in north-eastern Bihar, and helping to mitigate the problem of flooding.
- This project is a major water resource initiative aimed at interlinking rivers within Bihar.
- The Kosi River has long been a cause of flooding due to its heavy silt load and tendency to frequently change its course, whereas the Mechi River is part of the Mahananda river system.
- The plan involves strengthening the irrigation system and making rain-fed agriculture more sustainable by transporting surplus water to areas in need through this link.
- The Central Government is providing more than 50 percent of the financial assistance for the project.
- According to official estimates, the total cost is approximately ₹6,282.32 crore, with the Centre's contribution expected to be around ₹3,652.56 crore.
- This financial support is expected to accelerate the development of major water resource and irrigation infrastructure in the state, thereby boosting agricultural production and enhancing the effectiveness of regional water management.
Tags:
Planning & Project
