Some Observations on Recent Trends of Shifting Pattern of the Ganga between Rajmahal and Ahiron

The study indicates that the present trend of shifting of the Ganga has a direct impact on the long term viability of the Farakka Barrage Project. In the stretch downstream of the confluence of the Feeder Canal and the Bhagirathi, there is a likelihood of water finding its way back to the Ganga instead of flowing along the Bhagirathi. In the stretch upstream of Farakka Barrage there is a possibility that a significant part of the discharge might get diverted into the moribund channel of the Pagla river and thereby reducing the inflow at Farakka. This will reduce the amount of water, available for diversion through the Feeder Canal.