Bihar Fast-Tracks North Koel Project to Boost Irrigation Across Aurangabad and Gaya
Patna: The Bihar government is fast-tracking the remaining construction work on the North Koel Reservoir Project, a scheme that is set to expand irrigation coverage to 95,521 hectares across Aurangabad and Gaya districts.
According to the state’s Water Resources Department, the project will directly benefit farmers in eight blocks of Aurangabad – Navinagar, Kutumba, Aurangabad, Rafiganj, Barun, Dev, Madanpur and Goh – and four blocks of Gaya – Amas, Gurua, Guraru and Konch.
A key component of the project involves the repair and restoration of the North Koel Right Main Canal within Bihar’s territory. The department has outlined plans to modernise a 77.94 km stretch of the canal, from Km 31.40 to Km 109.34, by upgrading its lining and structures. Additionally, new distribution systems, minor canals, and waterways will be developed, with 171 new structures set to be constructed in Gaya district.
These enhancements are expected to restore irrigation facilities to 38,801 hectares in Bihar, significantly boosting agricultural productivity. With the reservoir’s total irrigation capacity set to increase from 56,720 hectares to 95,521 hectares, officials say the initiative will not only improve water availability but also enhance farmers’ incomes and living standards in the region.
