KOSI-MECHI INTRA-STATE LINK PROJECT - 27th July 2026 - Ministry of Jal Shakti - Gazette Notification PDF

Executive Summary The Minister of State for Jal Shakti provided a status update on the Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project, which is included under the PMKSY-AIBP with a central assistance of Rs. 3,652.56 crore. The project is scheduled for completion by March 2029, with 8.5% physical progress currently achieved. Additionally, the report details ongoing technical surveys for multipurpose projects in collaboration with the Government of Nepal and financial releases to Bihar for flood management.

Key Points / Main Content

• Project Financials and Progress

  • The Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project has a balance cost of Rs. 6,143.22 crore.
  • Central assistance totaling Rs. 3,652.56 crore has been allocated for the project.
  • The remodeling of the Eastern Kosi Main Canal (KM 0.00 to 41.30) is underway with a contract value of Rs. 2,639.80 crore.
  • The current physical progress of the link project stands at 8.5%.

• Indo-Nepal Cooperation and Multipurpose Projects

  • The Government of India is in regular dialogue with Nepal regarding Kosi River dams for mutual benefit and flood control.
  • A Joint Project Office (JPO-SKSKI), established in 2003, is preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the Sapta-Kosi and Sun-Kosi Kamla Diversion projects.
  • For the Sapta-Kosi project, various studies including topographical, hydrological, seismological, and Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) studies have been completed.
  • Similar technical surveys and drilling (1,549m) have been completed for the Sun-Kosi Kamla Diversion Multipurpose project.
  • No Indo-Nepal Joint Committee meetings were held during the 2025-26 period.

• Flood Management and Governance

  • Rs. 206.77 crore was released to the State of Bihar over the last three years under the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme.
  • The Government of India is not currently considering any proposal for a permanent Kosi-Gandak basin authority.

Impact Analysis

Government of Bihar Impact: The state is the primary beneficiary of the intra-state link project and has received significant financial aid (Rs. 206.77 crore) for flood management and border area programs. Action Required: The state must facilitate the completion of the Eastern Kosi Main Canal remodeling and ensure the Kosi-Mechi link project meets the March 2029 deadline.

Government of Nepal Impact: Nepal is a key collaborator in the preparation of DPRs for major multipurpose projects and dams intended for mutual flood control and benefit. Action Required: Continued engagement through the Joint Project Office is necessary to finalize project reports, despite the lack of recent Joint Committee meetings.

Ministry of Jal Shakti / Government of India Impact: Responsible for providing substantial central assistance (over Rs. 3,600 crore) and managing bilateral relations with Nepal regarding water resources. Action Required: Must continue monitoring the 8.5% physical progress of the Kosi-Mechi project and oversee the completion of pending DPRs for the Sapta-Kosi and Sun-Kosi projects.