Why is the Kosi River called the 'river of sorrow'?

The Kosi River is called the 'river of sorrow' because it frequently breaches its embankments, causing devastating floods that impact lives and livelihoods.

Are Kosi River embankments effective for flood control?

Experts suggest that embankments can be counterproductive, disrupting natural river functions, causing siltation, and leading to increased flood risk over time.

What is the alternative to river embankments for flood management?

An alternative proposed is 'learning to live with floods,' which involves accepting natural river processes and focusing on sustainable solutions like paleochannel revival.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Kosi River: India's 'River of Sorrow' Embankment Failure

Kosi River: India's 'River of Sorrow' Embankment Failure

3 Dec, 2025

•

Summary

Kosi River, known as 'river of sorrow,' repeatedly breaches embankments.
Experts warn embankments disrupt natural river functions and cause siltation.
Learning to live with floods is proposed as a sustainable alternative.

Kosi River: India's 'River of Sorrow' Embankment Failure

The Kosi River in Bihar, infamously known as the 'river of sorrow,' has a recurring pattern of breaching its embankments, leading to catastrophic floods. The Kosi has breached its embankment multiple times, notably in 2008 and 2024, displacing thousands and affecting millions. Experts critically question the efficacy of these artificial barriers, highlighting how they disrupt the natural flow and sediment transport of rivers.