Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project included under PMKSY-AIBP

Why in news

The Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project has been included under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayi Yojana – Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (PMKSY-AIBP) with significant central assistance, and progress on related projects with Nepal is also mentioned.

Exam relevance

GS1, GS2, GS3 · Geography, Governance, Economy, Environment & Ecology · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. The Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project is included under PMKSY-AIBP.
2. The balance cost of works for the project is Rs. 6,143.22 crore.
3. Central assistance for the project amounts to Rs. 3,652.56 crore.
4. The project is scheduled for completion by March 2029.
5. Remodeling work of Eastern Kosi Main Canal from K.M. 0.00 to 41.30 has been awarded at Rs. 2639.80 crore.
6. A physical progress of 8.5% has been achieved for the canal remodeling.
7. India is in dialogue with Nepal regarding Kosi River dams for mutual benefit, including flood control.
8. A Joint Project Office (JPO-SKSKI) was constituted in 2003 to prepare DPRs for Sapta-Kosi Multipurpose Project and Sun-Kosi Kamla Diversion Multipurpose project.
9. Several studies for the Sapta Kosi Multipurpose Project, including topographical surveys, water quality surveys, and GLOF studies, have been completed.

Prelims pointers

• Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project is under PMKSY-AIBP.
• Central assistance for the project is Rs. 3,652.56 crore.
• Project completion target: March 2029.
• Eastern Kosi Main Canal remodeling is part of the project.
• Joint Project Office (JPO-SKSKI) established in 2003 for Kosi and Sun-Kosi projects.
• Sapta-Kosi Multipurpose Project involves various completed studies like GLOF and seismological surveys.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of inter-state and trans-boundary river linking projects in India, with a specific reference to the Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project and India-Nepal cooperation on the Kosi River. What are the potential benefits and challenges associated with such projects?

Static linkage

The Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project is related to inter-state river linking and water resource management, falling under the broader ambit of India's water infrastructure development. The mention of Kosi River dams and joint projects with Nepal connects it to India's foreign policy and bilateral relations concerning water resources and flood management, particularly in the Himalayan region. The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayi Yojana (PMKSY) is a government initiative aimed at improving agricultural productivity through irrigation.

Significance

The inclusion of the Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project under PMKSY-AIBP signifies a push towards enhancing irrigation infrastructure and potentially boosting agricultural output in the region. The substantial central assistance highlights the project's national importance. The ongoing dialogue with Nepal on Kosi River dams is crucial for regional flood control and water resource management, addressing potential transboundary water issues. The progress on the Sapta-Kosi and Sun-Kosi projects indicates a long-term vision for multipurpose river valley development, which can have implications for power generation, irrigation, and flood mitigation.