Exploring the Richness of River Kosi: A Case Study on Its Ecology and Socioeconomic Dynamics of Fishers

This study explores the ecological and socioeconomic dynamics of the river Kosi, a vital tributary of the Ganga known as the “Sorrow of Bihar.” Flowing through Nepal and India, the Kosi sustains communities and supports rich biodiversity. The river’s heavy sediment load from rainfall causes significant soil erosion and aggradation in the plains. In March 2024, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI) conducted a survey under the National Mission for Clean Ganga-III to assess the river’s ecological integrity and the socioeconomic conditions of local fishers. Five sampling sites in Bihar revealed 44 fish species from 18 families, alongside diverse plankton and benthic communities. Water quality analysis showed significant variations, highlighting the need for regular monitoring. The socioeconomic survey indicated declining fish stocks due to destructive fishing practices and habitat degradation, threatening fishers’ livelihoods. The findings emphasize the need for effective conservation strategies to ensure the sustainability of the Kosi river ecosystem and the well-being of its communities.