Kopili River (Kapili): Origin, Tributaries, Map & Facts
Kopili River, also spelled Kapili River, is a prominent left-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra River, flowing through the northeastern Indian states of Meghalaya and Assam. It originates from the Khasi Hills in Meghalaya and travels approximately 290 kilometers before merging with the Brahmaputra River in Assam.
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Origin and Course of the Kopili River
The Kopili River originates from the south-western slopes of Shillong Peak in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. It is bounded by the Jayanti Hills to the west and the South Cachar and Mikir Hills to the east. Further, it has a catchment area of approximately 16,420 square kilometers and is the largest south-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
From its source, the river flows northward and then eastward, eventually entering the state of Assam. It traverses the following districts:
- West Karbi Anglong
- Nagaon
- Hojai
- Dima Hasao
The river finally joins the Brahmaputra River at a place known as Kopilimukh, located in the Nagaon district of Assam.
Tributaries of Kopili River
Several smaller rivers join the Kopili along its path:
- Upper Reaches (Meghalaya): Kharkor, Myntriang, Dinar, Longsom, Amring, Umrong, Longku, and Langkri rivers.
- Lower Reaches (Assam): Diyung, Jamuna, Umkhen–Borapani, Killing, Umtrew (Digaru), and Kolong rivers.
Dams and Hydropower Projects
The river is home to significant hydropower developments under the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO):
- Kopili Hydroelectric Project – includes dams at Khandong and Umrangso.
- Khandong Dam and Umrong Reservoir are key infrastructures supporting the energy needs of Assam and neighboring states.
Environmental Concerns
The Kopili River has faced increasing acidification, particularly in parts of Meghalaya, due to coal mining in its catchment area. The acidity has severely affected aquatic life, water usability, and power plant equipment. This makes it one of the most polluted rivers in India from acid mine drainage.
Conclusion
The Kopili River is a lifeline for parts of Assam and Meghalaya, supporting agriculture, power generation, and biodiversity. While it holds immense ecological and economic value, it also faces environmental challenges that need urgent attention to preserve this vital tributary of the Brahmaputra.
