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Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Aditya Sharma
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Asked: 2024-07-06T12:18:58+05:30 In:

Illustrate the distinctions that characterize rivers in northern and southern regions of India.

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Draw attention to the differences between the rivers in India’s north and south.

upsc: drainage system

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2 Answers

  1. Pragati idhate
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  2. Jayesh Malhotra
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    The Indian drainage system is characterized by a complex network of rivers, lakes, and other water bodies that play a crucial role in shaping the country’s geography and supporting its agriculture and economy. However, it is divided into northern and southern river systems that share similarities in their fundamental importance for agriculture, transportation, and ecological diversity. Despite these commonalities, northern and southern river systems possess distinct characteristics, as provided below:

    Characteristics Northern Rivers Southern Rivers
    Origin Mainly Himalayas and northern mountain ranges, including glaciers (e.g., Ganga originating from Gangotri Glacier) Western Ghats and Deccan Plateau (e.g., Godavari originating from Trimbak Hills)
    Water Source Snowmelt, glaciers, and rainfall (e.g., Brahamputra) Rainfall and runoff from Western Ghats (e.g., Tungabhadra)
    Type of River Mostly antecedent exemplified by Indus, Satluj, Ganga. Mostly consequent exemplified by Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery.
    Flow Direction Generally flow towards the Bay of Bengal (e.g., Brahmaputra) Generally flow towards the Arabian Sea (e.g., Narmada)
    Water Availability Mostly perennial rivers (e.g., Yamuna) Mostly seasonal (e.g., Krishna)
    Development of Canals More developed as they pass through plain areas (e.g. Ganges Canal) Comparatively less development of canals due to the harder plateau regions (e.g. Kaveri River, flowing through the Deccan Plateau)
    Erosion and Sediments Carry more sediment and contribute to the prominent formation of deltas (e.g., Ganges-Brahmaputra have formed largest river delta of the world, the Sunderban delta) Carry fewer sediments and exhibit less prominent delta formation, as seen in rivers like the Mahanadi with its comparatively smaller delta
    Flood Patterns Prone to seasonal floods during monsoons (e.g., Brahmaputra) Lesser tendency for severe monsoon flooding (e.g., Tapi)
    Hydroelectric Potential High possibilities for the development of hydropower projects (e.g., Sutlej) Limited due to tough terrain and seasonal water availability in rivers (e.g., Sharavathi)
    Navigation High potential as these are perennial and travel long distances. (e.g., Ganga) Limited due to seasonal flow and hilly terrain (e.g., Periyar)
    Landforms Form a large number of landforms like Vshaped valleys , gorges, canyons, alluvial plains. For instance, the Brahmaputra River forms a gorge near Namcha-Barwa in Tibet, known as the Tsangpo Gorge. Form comparatively less landforms like waterfalls (e.g., Sharavathi river has formed the Jog Falls in Karnataka.
    Stages of River All three major stages viz, youthful, mature, and old, can be seen, as illustrated by the river Yamuna. Three stages of rivers are not clear, especially the youth stage is absent, as showcased by the river Cauvery
    Meandering Extensive meandering sections, as demonstrated by the rivers Ganges, Yamuna, and Brahmaputra. Shorter meandering sections, as exemplified by the rivers Godavari, Krishna, and Cauvery.
    Dispute International, illustrated by the Brahamputra river dispute between India and China Interstate, exemplified by the Cauvery river dispute between the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

    In the intricate tapestry of India’s rivers, the distinctions that mark the northern and southern regions form a dynamic symphony of nature’s diversity. These distinctions, rooted in geography, origin, flow patterns, and ecological characteristics, weave a complex narrative that influences our nation’s landscape, economy, and culture. By embracing the uniqueness of each river system, we can pave the way for sustainable development, equitable water-sharing agreements, and the preservation of our natural heritage.

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