The Kamla River, also spelled Kamala River, is a seasonal river flowing through eastern Nepal and northern Bihar, India. Known for its monsoon-fed floods and agricultural utility, the river is both a blessing and a challenge for the people living along its banks.

Quick Facts

• Origin: Churia Hills (also known as the Siwalik Hills), Sindhuli District, Nepal

• Length: Approx. 328 km (204 miles)

• Countries: Nepal and India

• Mouth: Confluence with the Kosi River in Bihar

• Key Districts: Sindhuli, Dhanusha (Nepal); Madhubani, Darbhanga (India)

Geographical and Hydrological Overview

Source and Course

The Kamla River begins in the Churia Hills of central-eastern Nepal and flows southeastward. After traversing the Terai plains, it crosses into the Indian state of Bihar, where it becomes a key tributary of the Kosi River, ultimately draining into the Ganges.

Key Features

• Seasonal River: Dominated by monsoon flows (June–September)

• Flood-prone Basin: Frequently floods low-lying areas of Bihar

• Catchment Area: Characterized by fertile alluvial soil, ideal for agriculture

Socio-Cultural Significance

Religious and Cultural Value

While not as widely mythologized as the Ganga or Yamuna, the Kamla River is locally significant:

• Traditional rituals and festivals like Chhath Puja are observed on its banks in Bihar.

• Acts as a natural boundary in some regions, influencing local settlements and trade routes.

Agriculture and Economy

Irrigation Lifeline

The Kamla River supports irrigation systems that benefit thousands of hectares of farmland in both Nepal and India. Major crops in the river basin include:

• Paddy (rice)

• Maize

• Wheat

• Sugarcane

Kamla Irrigation Projects

In both countries, irrigation infrastructure like canals, embankments, and diversion weirs have been built to harness the river’s flow for agriculture and flood mitigation.

Flooding and Water Management Challenges

Annual Floods

The Kamla is notorious for flash floods, especially during the monsoon. Districts like Madhubani and Darbhanga experience significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and crops.

Major Challenges

• Embankment breaches during high rainfall events

• Sedimentation reducing river capacity

• Lack of integrated river basin management between Nepal and India

Flood Control Measures

• Construction of flood protection embankments

• Kamla-Balan Flood Control Project in Bihar

• Calls for cross-border cooperation on flood forecasting and dam planning

Ecology and Environmental Concerns

Depleting Water Quality

Urban runoff, agricultural chemicals, and domestic waste have contributed to pollution in several stretches of the river.

Biodiversity Impact

Seasonal flow variations and embankment development affect local aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, including fish populations and wetland habitats.

Conclusion

The Kamla River is an essential natural resource with deep agricultural and regional importance. However, it also presents persistent challenges in flood control and water management. For sustainable development, enhanced cross-border cooperation and environmentally responsible practices are crucial to safeguarding the river and the millions who depend on it.