DRINAGE SYSTEM
Small streams following different directions come together and form the Main River, which ultimately drains into large water bodies such as lakes, seas, and oceans. The area drained by a single river system is called a drainage basin. Rivers play an important role in human livelihood. World's largest drainage basin Nile River basin in Egypt.
India has a complex and extensive network of drainage systems, including rivers, lakes, and other water bodies. The drainage systems in India can be broadly categorized into two types: the Himalayan drainage system and the Peninsular drainage system. Nearly 77 % of the river water drains into the Bay of Bengal and the remaining 23% drains into the Arabian Sea.
The drainage system of a region refers to the network of rivers, streams, lakes, and other water bodies that collect and channel surface water runoff towards the oceans or other drainage basins. Drainage systems can be classified based on various criteria, including the pattern of river flow, the origin of rivers, and the nature of the drainage basin.
- Dendritic Drainage: In dendritic drainage patterns, rivers and streams resemble the branching pattern of tree roots. This pattern is common in regions with uniform geology and slope, where water flows in multiple directions, forming tributaries that join the main river channel.
- Trellis Drainage: Trellis drainage patterns feature parallel main rivers with shorter tributaries flowing perpendicular to them. This pattern typically occurs in regions with folded or tilted rock layers, where rivers follow the structural alignment of geological features.
- Rectangular Drainage: Rectangular drainage patterns are characterized by right-angled bends and straight sections in river channels. They usually form in regions with well-developed joint systems in the underlying rock, causing rivers to flow along these linear fractures.
- Radial Drainage: Radial drainage patterns feature rivers flowing outward from a central high point, such as a volcanic cone or dome. This pattern is common around volcanic areas, where rivers radiate outward from the volcanic peak.
Based on the Origin of Rivers
- Exoreic or Exorheic Drainage: Exoreic drainage systems refer to rivers that drain into the sea or ocean. Most rivers fall under this category, carrying water from their source areas to the coast.
- Endoreic or Endorheic Drainage: Endoreic drainage systems are closed basins that do not drain into the sea. Instead, they form inland drainage basins where rivers flow into interior lakes or evaporate without reaching the ocean. Examples include the Great Basin in North America and the Qaidam Basin in China.
Based on the Nature of the Drainage Basin
- Consequent Drainage: Consequent drainage patterns develop as a result of the initial slope of the land surface. Rivers follow the slope gradient and erode channels along paths of least resistance.
- Subsequent Drainage: Subsequent drainage patterns develop after the initial formation of the landscape. Rivers adjust their courses over time through erosion and deposition, following geological structures or weaknesses in the terrain.
- Antecedent Drainage: Antecedent drainage occurs when rivers maintain their courses across uplifted mountain ranges or other tectonic features. The rivers existed before the uplift and continue to flow despite changes in the landscape.
The Himalayan drainage system is one of the most extensive and significant river systems in the world, originating from the lofty Himalayan mountain ranges. It comprises numerous rivers and their tributaries that flow through the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, eventually draining into the plains of the Indian subcontinent.
The Himalayan drainage system originates from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, which are home to some of the highest mountains in the world, including Mount Everest. The melting snow and glaciers feed numerous rivers and streams, giving rise to a complex network of watercourses.
Major Rivers: The Himalayan drainage system includes several major rivers, each with its own watershed and basin. Some of the prominent rivers originating from the Himalayas include:
- The Indus River: Originating from the Tibetan Plateau, the Indus River flows through northern India and Pakistan before emptying into the Arabian Sea.
- The Ganges River: Considered sacred by Hindus, the Ganges River originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It flows through the northern plains of India, passing through major cities such as Haridwar, Varanasi, and Kolkata, before discharging into the Bay of Bengal.
- The Brahmaputra River: Originating in Tibet, the Brahmaputra River flows through the eastern Himalayas and enters India through the state of Arunachal Pradesh. It traverses Assam and Bangladesh, where it merges with the Ganges to form the world's largest delta, known as the Sundarbans Delta.
Tributaries: The Himalayan rivers are fed by numerous tributaries, which add to the volume of water and contribute to the overall drainage of the region. Some significant tributaries of the Himalayan rivers include the Yamuna, Ghaghara, Gandak, Kosi, and Teesta rivers.
Hydrology: The Himalayan drainage system plays a crucial role in the hydrology of the Indian subcontinent, providing water for irrigation, drinking, and industrial purposes. The rivers also support diverse ecosystems and are vital for agriculture and biodiversity.
Geomorphic Processes: The Himalayan rivers exhibit dynamic geomorphic processes, including erosion, transportation, and deposition, which shape the landscape of the region. The fast-flowing rivers carve deep valleys, gorges, and alluvial plains as they meander through the rugged terrain.
The Himalayan drainage system is a lifeline for millions of people in the Indian subcontinent, serving as a vital source of water, livelihood, and cultural significance. However, the region is also prone to natural hazards such as floods, landslides, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), highlighting the need for sustainable management and conservation efforts.
The Indus River system is one of the longest and most important river systems in Asia, originating from the Tibetan Plateau and flowing through parts of China, India, and Pakistan. It comprises the main Indus River along with its tributaries, which collectively form a significant drainage network in the region.
The Indus River originates from the Tibetan Plateau near Lake Mansarovar in western Tibet. It flows northwestward through the Himalayas, forming deep gorges and valleys, before entering the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. From there, it continues its journey southward, eventually emptying into the Arabian Sea near the port city of Karachi in Pakistan.
Major Tributaries: The Indus River is fed by numerous tributaries along its course, which significantly contribute to its flow and drainage basin. Some of the major tributaries of the Indus River include:
- Jhelum River: Originating from the Indian-administered territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Jhelum River joins the Indus near the city of Jhang in Pakistan.
- Chenab River: Formed by the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, the Chenab River flows through the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir before merging with the Indus near the city of Uch Sharif in Pakistan.
- Ravi River: Originating from the Himalayas in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, the Ravi River flows through the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and the Indian state of Punjab before joining the Chenab River in Pakistan.
- Hydroelectric Power: The Indus River system is a significant source of hydroelectric power generation in the region. Several dams and reservoirs have been constructed along its course, including the Mangla Dam and Tarbela Dam in Pakistan, which provide water for irrigation and electricity generation.
- Irrigation and Agriculture: The fertile plains of the Indus River basin support extensive agriculture, with irrigation being a crucial aspect of farming practices in the region. The river and its tributaries supply water for irrigation, enabling the cultivation of crops such as wheat, rice, and cotton.
- Cultural and Historical Significance: The Indus River system has played a vital role in the development of ancient civilizations, including the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's earliest urban societies. Archaeological sites such as Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa, located along the banks of the Indus River, provide insights into the cultural and historical significance of the region.
The Indus River system is a lifeline for millions of people in South Asia, supporting agriculture, industry, and livelihoods, while also serving as a source of cultural heritage and historical significance. However, the river system faces challenges such as water scarcity, pollution, and environmental degradation, highlighting the need for sustainable management and conservation efforts.
4. Indus drainage system
The Indus drainage system is one of the largest river systems in Asia, encompassing the Indus River along with its tributaries and the vast drainage basin associated with it. Originating from the Tibetan Plateau in China, the Indus River flows through India and Pakistan before emptying into the Arabian Sea.
The Indus River originates from the Tibetan Plateau near Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash in western Tibet. It flows northwestward through the Himalayas, forming deep gorges and valleys, before entering the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. From there, it continues its journey southward, traversing the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Sindh in Pakistan, before finally emptying into the Arabian Sea near the port city of Karachi.
Tributaries: The Indus River is fed by numerous tributaries along its course, which significantly contribute to its flow and the size of its drainage basin. Some of the major tributaries of the Indus River include:
- Jhelum River: Originating from the Indian-administered territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Jhelum River joins the Indus near the city of Jhang in Pakistan.
- Chenab River: Formed by the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, the Chenab River flows through the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir before merging with the Indus near the city of Uch Sharif in Pakistan.
- Ravi River: Originating from the Himalayas in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, the Ravi River flows through the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and the Indian state of Punjab before joining the Chenab River in Pakistan.
- Sutlej River: Originating from Lake Rakshastal in Tibet, the Sutlej River flows through the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab before entering Pakistan and joining the Indus near the city of Bahawalpur.
- Hydroelectric Power: The Indus River system has significant hydropower potential, and several dams and reservoirs have been constructed along its course for power generation and irrigation purposes. The Tarbela Dam and Mangla Dam are two major dams on the Indus River in Pakistan, which contribute significantly to the country's electricity generation and agricultural irrigation.
- Irrigation and Agriculture: The fertile plains of the Indus River basin support extensive agriculture, with irrigation being a crucial aspect of farming practices in the region. The river and its tributaries supply water for irrigation, enabling the cultivation of crops such as wheat, rice, cotton, and sugarcane.
- Economic and Cultural Significance: The Indus River basin is home to several major cities and agricultural regions in Pakistan, including Lahore, Multan, and Hyderabad. The river has played a significant role in the development of ancient civilizations, including the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished around the banks of the river thousands of years ago. Today, the Indus River remains a vital lifeline for millions of people, supporting agriculture, industry, and livelihoods in the region.
The Ganga River system, also known as the Ganges River system, is one of the most important river systems in India, comprising the Ganga River along with its tributaries and the extensive drainage basin associated with it.
- Origin and Course: The Ganga River originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the Himalayas, located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It flows in a southeast direction through the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. The river traverses several major cities, including Haridwar, Kanpur, Allahabad, Varanasi, Patna, and Kolkata.
- Major Tributaries: The Ganga River is fed by numerous tributaries along its course, which significantly contribute to its flow and the size of its drainage basin. Some of the major tributaries of the Ganga River include:
- Yamuna River: Originating from the Yamunotri Glacier in the Himalayas, the Yamuna River is the largest tributary of the Ganga and merges with it near Allahabad.
- Ghaghara River: Originating from the Tibetan Plateau, the Ghaghara River flows through Nepal and India before joining the Ganga near the town of Chhapra in Bihar.
- Gandak River: Originating from the Nepal Himalayas, the Gandak River flows through Nepal and the Indian states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh before merging with the Ganga near Patna.
- Kosi River: Known as the "Sorrow of Bihar" due to its frequent floods, the Kosi River originates from Nepal and joins the Ganga near the town of Kursela in Bihar.
- Religious and Cultural Significance: The Ganga River holds immense religious significance for Hindus and is considered sacred by millions of people. It is worshipped as the goddess Ganga, and religious ceremonies and rituals are performed along its banks. Pilgrims from all over the world visit the Ganga to take part in religious rituals and bathe in its holy waters, believing it can cleanse them of sins and bestow blessings.
- Economic Importance: The Ganga River basin supports extensive agriculture, with fertile plains along its banks being used for cultivation. The river also serves as a major transportation route, facilitating trade and commerce between different regions. Additionally, the Ganga Basin is home to several major cities and industrial centers, contributing significantly to the economy of the region.
- Conservation Efforts: Despite its cultural and economic importance, the Ganga River faces numerous challenges, including pollution, over-extraction of water, and encroachment on its floodplains. The Indian government has launched various initiatives, such as the Namami Gange program, to rejuvenate and conserve the river and improve its water quality. These efforts aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Ganga River system and its ecosystems while preserving its cultural and religious heritage.
The Brahmaputra River system is one of the major river systems in Asia, originating from the Tibetan Plateau and flowing through China, India, and Bangladesh.
Origin and Course: The Brahmaputra River originates from the Chemayungdung Glacier in the Himalayas in Tibet, where it is known as the Yarlung Tsangpo. It flows eastward through southern Tibet, cutting across the Himalayas through the world's deepest and narrowest gorge, the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon. After entering India's Arunachal Pradesh state, it turns southward and enters Assam, where it is known as the Brahmaputra. In Assam, it forms a wide, braided river with numerous sandbars and islands. Finally, it enters Bangladesh and merges with the Ganga River (Padma) and Meghna River before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
Major Tributaries: The Brahmaputra River is fed by several tributaries along its course, both in Tibet and India. Some of the major tributaries of the Brahmaputra River include:
- Dibang River: Originating from the Himalayas in Arunachal Pradesh, the Dibang River is one of the major tributaries of the Brahmaputra.
- Subansiri River: Flowing through Arunachal Pradesh, the Subansiri River joins the Brahmaputra near the town of Dibrugarh in Assam.
- Kameng River: Also known as the Jia Bharali River, the Kameng River originates from the Himalayas and joins the Brahmaputra in Assam.
- Manas River: Originating from Bhutan, the Manas River flows through Assam and joins the Brahmaputra near the town of Jogighopa.
Hydroelectric Potential: The Brahmaputra River system has significant hydroelectric potential, with several hydropower projects planned and operational along its course. These projects help in generating electricity for the region and also contribute to flood control and irrigation.
Economic Importance: The Brahmaputra River basin supports agriculture, fisheries, and transportation in the regions it traverses. The fertile plains of Assam are known for their tea cultivation, and the river serves as a lifeline for the people living along its banks.
Environmental Challenges: The Brahmaputra River system faces various environmental challenges, including sedimentation, erosion, floods, and riverbank erosion. Climate change and deforestation in the Himalayan region are exacerbating these challenges, leading to increased vulnerability for communities living in the river basin. Efforts are underway to address these challenges through sustainable river basin management and conservation initiatives.
The Peninsular River System refers to the network of rivers that flow across the Indian peninsula, encompassing the Deccan Plateau and surrounding regions.
Origin and Course: The Peninsular rivers originate from the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, and central highlands of the Indian peninsula. These rivers flow in different directions, draining into the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and inland drainage basins. Unlike the Himalayan rivers, which are perennial and fed by snowmelt, many Peninsular rivers are seasonal and depend on rainfall.
Major Rivers: Some of the major rivers of the Peninsular River System include:
- Godavari: Originating from the Western Ghats in Maharashtra, the Godavari River is the second-longest river in India and flows eastward across the Deccan Plateau before draining into the Bay of Bengal.
- Krishna: Also originating from the Western Ghats, the Krishna River flows eastward through the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh before merging with the Bay of Bengal.
- Kaveri: Originating from the Brahmagiri Range of the Western Ghats in Karnataka, the Kaveri River flows southeastward through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu before draining into the Bay of Bengal.
- Mahanadi: Originating from the Chhattisgarh region, the Mahanadi River flows eastward across Odisha before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
- Narmada and Tapi: These rivers flow westward from the central highlands of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, draining into the Arabian Sea.
Hydroelectric Potential: The Peninsular rivers have significant hydroelectric potential, and several dams and reservoirs have been constructed along their courses for irrigation, hydropower generation, and flood control. The Srisailam, Nagarjuna Sagar, and Tungabhadra dams on the Krishna River, and the Mettur and Bhavani Sagar dams on the Kaveri River are notable examples.
Agricultural Importance: The Peninsular River System supports agriculture in the regions through which these rivers flow. Irrigation from these rivers helps in cultivating crops such as rice, sugarcane, cotton, and pulses, contributing to the agricultural economy of the region.
Environmental Challenges: Like other river systems in India, the Peninsular River System faces challenges such as pollution, sedimentation, deforestation, and encroachment on riverbanks. Efforts are needed to address these challenges through sustainable water management practices, watershed conservation, and pollution control measures.
8. East flowing Rivers
The East flowing rivers in India refer to rivers that originate from the Western Ghats and flow eastward towards the Bay of Bengal. These rivers play a crucial role in the drainage system of the Indian peninsula and support agriculture, irrigation, and livelihoods in the regions they traverse.
- Godavari River: The Godavari River is the second-longest river in India and flows eastward across the Deccan Plateau. Originating from the Western Ghats in Maharashtra, it passes through Telangana and Andhra Pradesh before draining into the Bay of Bengal. The Godavari is often referred to as the "Dakshin Ganga" due to its significance in the southern part of India. It is known for its fertile delta region, which supports agriculture and horticulture.
- Krishna River: Originating from the Western Ghats in Maharashtra, the Krishna River flows eastward through Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh before merging with the Bay of Bengal. It is the fourth-longest river in India and is known for its importance in agriculture, hydroelectric power generation, and tourism. The Krishna Basin is a significant agricultural region known for its rice and sugarcane cultivation.
- Kaveri River: The Kaveri River originates from the Brahmagiri Range of the Western Ghats in Karnataka. It flows eastward through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu before draining into the Bay of Bengal. The Kaveri Basin is one of the most agriculturally productive regions in India, known for its cultivation of rice, sugarcane, and silk. The river is also culturally significant and is revered by the people of the region.
- Mahanadi River: The Mahanadi River originates from the Chhattisgarh region and flows eastward across Odisha before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. It is one of the major rivers of the eastern Indian states and plays a crucial role in irrigation, hydropower generation, and transportation. The Hirakud Dam, built across the Mahanadi River in Odisha, is one of the longest dams in the world.
- Brahmani River: The Brahmani River is a major tributary of the Mahanadi River and originates from the Eastern Ghats in Odisha. It flows eastward through Odisha before joining the Mahanadi River near Cuttack. The Brahmani Basin is important for agriculture and supports the industrial development of the region.
These east flowing rivers, along with their tributaries, form the backbone of the agricultural economy in the eastern and southern regions of India. They also provide water for domestic use, industry, and hydropower generation, contributing significantly to the socio-economic development of the country.
The west flowing rivers in India originate from the Western Ghats and flow towards the Arabian Sea. These rivers play a vital role in the drainage system of the Indian peninsula and support various ecosystems, agriculture, and human settlements along their course.
- Narmada River: The Narmada River originates from the Amarkantak Plateau in Madhya Pradesh and flows westward through the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat before draining into the Arabian Sea. It is one of the longest west flowing rivers in India and is known for its marble rocks and the Narmada Valley Dam, also known as the Sardar Sarovar Dam.
- Tapi River (Tapti): The Tapi River originates from the Satpura Range in Madhya Pradesh and flows westward through the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat before emptying into the Arabian Sea. It is the second-longest west flowing river in India and is known for its fertile basin, which supports agriculture and horticulture.
- Sabarmati River: The Sabarmati River originates from the Aravalli Range in Rajasthan and flows westward through Gujarat before draining into the Arabian Sea. It is one of the major rivers of Gujarat and is known for the Sabarmati Ashram, established by Mahatma Gandhi on its banks in Ahmedabad.
- Luni River: The Luni River originates from the Aravalli Range in Rajasthan and flows westward through Rajasthan and Gujarat before disappearing into the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. It is one of the few rivers in India that flows into an inland drainage basin and does not reach the sea. The Luni Basin is prone to flash floods and water scarcity.
- Sharavathi River: The Sharavathi River originates from the Western Ghats in Karnataka and flows westward before joining the Arabian Sea near Honavar in Karnataka. It is known for the Jog Falls, one of the highest plunge waterfalls in India, and the Linganamakki Dam, which is part of the Sharavathi Hydroelectric Project.
| Rivers | Tributaries |
| Indus | Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej |
| Ganga | Yamuna, Chambal, Son, Damodar, Mahakali, Ghagra, Ramganga, Kosi, Gandak. |
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Yamuna
|
Tons, Hindon, Chambal, Sindh, Betwa, Ken. |
| Chambal | Banas, Sind, Betwa, Ken. |
| Son | Johilla, Gopad, Rihand, Kanhar, North Koel. |
| Narmada | Amaravati, Bhukhi, Tawa, Banger |
| Brahmaputra | Subansiri, Kameng, Belsire, Dhansiri, Manas, Sankosh, Tista, Dibru, Dihing, Kalang, Burhi, Dikhu. |
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Mahanadi
|
Ib, Hasdo, Sheonath, Sondur, Pairi, Ong, Tel. |
| Godavari | Penganga, Wardha, Weinganga, Indravati, Sabari, Manjira. |
| Krishna | Koyna, Tungabhadra, Ghatprabha, Malprabha, Bhima, Musi, Munneru. |
| Kaveri | Harangi, Hemavati, Kabini, Bhavani, Arkavathy, Lakshmana Tirtha, Noyyal, and Arkavati |
- Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi is one of the holiest cities in Hinduism. It is believed that dying in Varanasi liberates one from the cycle of rebirth. The city is famous for its ghats (bathing steps) along the river, where pilgrims perform rituals and bathe in the holy water.
- Haridwar, Uttarakhand: Another holy city located on the banks of the Ganges, Haridwar is known as the "Gateway to the Gods." It is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus, especially during the Kumbh Mela, a massive religious gathering held every three years.
- Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: Located on the banks of the Ganges River in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." It is a popular destination for yoga retreats and Ayurvedic treatments.
- Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: Formerly known as Allahabad, Prayagraj is located at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. It is a major Hindu pilgrimage center and hosts the Kumbh Mela every six years.
- Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu: Located on the banks of the Palar River, Kanchipuram is known as the "City of a Thousand Temples." It is a major center for Hindu pilgrimage and is famous for its silk sarees.
- Srirangapatna, Karnataka: Located on an island in the Kaveri River, Srirangapatna was the capital of the Mysore Kingdom in the 18th century. It is famous for its Tipu Sultan's Fort and the Ranganathaswamy Temple.
- Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh: Located on the banks of the Krishna River, Vijayawada is the capital of Andhra Pradesh. It is a major commercial center and is famous for the Kanaka Durga Temple, dedicated to the goddess Durga.
- Kolkata, West Bengal: Located on the banks of the Hooghly River, Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal and the third-largest city in India. It is a major center for trade, commerce, and culture, and is famous for its Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge.
- Guwahati, Assam: Located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, Guwahati is the largest city in Assam. It is a major commercial center and is famous for the Kamakhya Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya.
- Patna, Bihar: Located on the banks of the Ganges River, Patna is the capital of Bihar. It is a major center for education and culture, and is famous for the Patna Museum and the Harimandir Sahib gurdwara.
- Kanpur - Ganges: Kanpur, situated on the banks of the Ganges River in the state of Uttar Pradesh, is an industrial city known for its leather and textile industries. It is one of the largest cities in northern India.
- Agra - Yamuna: Agra, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, is famous for the iconic Taj Mahal and is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River. It is a major tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Delhi - Yamuna: Delhi, the capital territory of India, is located along the banks of the Yamuna River. It is a metropolitan city and serves as the political, cultural, and economic center of the country.
- Bengaluru (Bangalore) - Vrishabhavathi River: Bengaluru, the capital city of the Indian state of Karnataka, is situated on the banks of the Vrishabhavathi River, a tributary of the Arkavati River. It is known as the Silicon Valley of India and is a prominent IT hub.
- Jabalpur: The largest city in Madhya Pradesh, Jabalpur is situated on the banks of the Narmada River. It's known for its Dhuandhar Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in India.
- Thanjavur: This city is a former Chola dynasty capital and is known for its Brihadeeswarar Temple, one of the largest temples in South India. It's located on the banks of the Cauvery River.
- Tiruchirappalli: This city is located on the banks of the Cauvery River and is known for its Rockfort Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Chennai: The capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai is located on the banks of the Bay of Bengal, but the Cauvery River flows through the city's outskirts. It's a major commercial and cultural center in South India.
- Nashik: This city is located on the banks of the Godavari River and is considered one of the holiest cities in Maharashtra. It's famous for its Kumbh Mela, which takes place every 12 years.
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Previous Year Questions 1. Consider the following statements: (upsc 2023) 1. Jhelum River passes through Wular Lake. 2. Krishna River directly feeds Kolleru Lake. 3. Meandering of the Gandak River formed Kanwar Lake. How many of the statements given above are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Answer: A
2. Gandikota canyon of South India was created by which one of the following rivers? (UPSC 2022) (a) Cauvery (b) Manjira (c) Pennar (d) Tungabhadra Answer: C Mains 1. The interlinking of rivers can provide viable solutions to the multi-dimensional inter-related problems of droughts, floods, and interrupted navigation. Critically examine. (upsc 2020) 2. (a) Bring out the causes for more frequent occurrence of landslides in the Himalayas than in the Western Ghats. (b) There is no formation of deltas by rivers of the Western Ghats. Why? (upsc 2013) |
