Drainage system of Uttar Pradesh
I. Introduction
A. Importance of a functional drainage system
A functional drainage system is crucial for any community. It helps to prevent flooding, which can cause damage to property and infrastructure. It also helps to improve air quality and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
There are many different types of drainage systems, but they all share one common goal: to remove excess water from an area. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as gravity drains, pumps, and open ditches.
Gravity drains are the most common type of drainage system. They work by using the force of gravity to move water downhill. Pumps are used to move water that cannot be drained by gravity alone. Open ditches are used to collect and divert water away from areas that are prone to flooding.
A well-functioning drainage system is essential for the health and safety of any community. It helps to protect people from flooding, improve air quality, and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
B. Relevance of studying Uttar Pradesh's drainage system
The drainage system of Uttar Pradesh is important for a number of reasons. First, it helps to prevent flooding in the state, which can cause extensive damage to property and infrastructure. Second, it helps to improve the quality of water in the state, which is important for both human health and the environment. Third, it helps to reduce the risk of disease, as mosquitoes and other pests can breed in standing water. Finally, it helps to improve the overall appearance of the state, as clean drains can make for a more pleasant and inviting environment.
The drainage system of Uttar Pradesh is a complex network of rivers, canals, and drains that work together to carry water away from the state. The system is constantly being updated and improved to meet the needs of the growing population and the changing environment.
One of the most important recent improvements to the drainage system of Uttar Pradesh was the construction of the Upper Ganga Canal. This canal, which was completed in 1854, provides water for irrigation to millions of acres of farmland in the state. It has also helped to reduce flooding in the region.
II. Watershed & Drainage Basin
A. Defining watersheds
A watershed is an area of land that drains water into a common body of water, such as a stream, river, lake, or ocean. The word watershed is also often used interchangeably with drainage basin or catchment area.
Watersheds are important because they help to regulate the flow of water and prevent flooding. They also play a role in filtering pollutants and providing clean water for drinking, swimming, and fishing. Watersheds are home to a variety of plants and animals, and they provide important habitats for wildlife.
Human activities, such as farming, logging, and construction, can have a significant impact on watersheds. It is important to protect watersheds from pollution and other forms of degradation in order to ensure that they continue to provide clean water and healthy habitats for people and wildlife.
How are watersheds classified?
Watersheds can be classified in a number of ways, including by size, drainage, shape, and land use pattern.
Size:Watersheds can be classified as micro, mini, milli, sub-, and macro watersheds based on their size. Micro watersheds are the smallest, with an area of less than 100 hectares. Macro watersheds are the largest, with an area of more than 50,000 hectares.
Drainage:Watersheds can be classified as endorheic, exoreic, or rhineic based on their drainage pattern.
Endorheic watersheds are those that drain internally, with no outlet to the ocean. Exoreic watersheds are those that drain externally, to the ocean or another large body of water. Rhineic watersheds are those that drain into a river that is connected to the ocean.
Shape:Watersheds can be classified as dendritic, lobate, or rectangular based on their shape.
Dendritic watersheds are those that have a tree-like shape, with many small tributaries draining into a larger river. Lobate watersheds are those that have a lobe-like shape, with many small tributaries draining into a larger lake. Rectangular watersheds are those that have a rectangular shape, with two main tributaries draining into a larger river.
Land use pattern:Watersheds can be classified as urban, agricultural, or forested based on their land use pattern.Urban watersheds are those that are dominated by human activity, such as cities and towns. Agricultural watersheds are those that are dominated by farming, such as cropland and pasture. Forested watersheds are those that are dominated by trees, such as forests and woodlands.
What is the difference between a watershed and a river basin?
The main difference between a watershed and a river basin is size. A watershed is typically smaller than a river basin, and it is the area of land that drains into a single stream or river. A river basin is the larger area of land that drains into a larger river system.For example, the Mississippi River Basin is the largest river basin in the United States, covering an area of over 1,245,000 square miles. The watershed of the Mississippi River is much smaller, covering an area of only about 800,000 square miles.
B. Overview of drainage basins in UP
1. Ganga Basin
The Ganga Basin, also known as the Ganges Basin, is one of the largest river basins in the world, covering an area of approximately 1,086,000 square kilometers. It is located in the northern and central parts of India, and is home to over 400 million people.
The Ganges River is the main river in the basin, and it is one of the most sacred rivers in Hinduism. The river originates in the Himalayas, and it flows eastward through the plains of India, before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
The Ganges Basin is a major source of water for irrigation, drinking water, industrial water, and hydroelectric power for the people of India. It is also home to a variety of plants and animals, including many endangered species.
2. Yamuna Basin
The Yamuna River is a major tributary of the Ganges River, and is one of the most important rivers in India. It originates in the Himalayas, and flows eastward through the states of Uttarakhand, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi, before emptying into the Ganges River.
The Yamuna Basin covers an area of approximately 37,600 square kilometers, and is home to over 50 million people. The river is a major source of water for irrigation, drinking water, industrial water, and hydroelectric power for the people of India.
3. Gandak Basin
The Gandak River is a major river in the Himalayas, and is a tributary of the Ganges River. It originates in the Mahabharata mountains of Nepal, and flows eastward through the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in India, before emptying into the Ganges River.The Gandak Basin covers an area of approximately 40,553 square kilometers, and is home to over 10 million people. The river is a major source of water for irrigation, drinking water, industrial water, and hydroelectric power for the people of India and Nepal. It is also home to a variety of plants and animals, including many endangered species.
The Gandak Basin is also one of the most flood-prone river basins in the world. The river has a history of flooding, which has caused extensive damage to property and crops.
The Indian and Nepalese governments have taken a number of steps to address the flooding in the Gandak Basin. In 2010, the two governments signed the Gandak River Basin Agreement, which aims to reduce the risk of flooding and improve the management of water resources in the basin.
4. Ghaghara Basin
The Ghaghara River is a major trans-boundary river, originating from the Tibetan Plateau near Lake Mansarovar in Nepal. It is a major left bank and largest tributary of the Ganges. After meeting with tributaries in UP it enters into Bihar near Guthani of Siwan district and joins Ganga at Revilganj(Chapra) in district Saran.
The Ghaghara River is the Ganges' largest tributary by volume and the Ganges' second-longest tributary by length after the Yamuna.
The Ghaghara Basin covers an area of approximately 127,950 square kilometers (49,400 sq mi), of which 45 percent is in India. The basin is located in the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand in India, and in the provinces of Gandaki and Lumbini in Nepal.
5. Others
The Chambal Basin is located in the northern and central parts of the state, and covers an area of approximately 23,000 square kilometers. The Chambal River is a major tributary of the Yamuna River, and is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife.
The Betwa Basin is located in the southern and central parts of the state, and covers an area of approximately 26,000 square kilometers. The Betwa River is a major tributary of the Ganges River, and is known for its historical and cultural significance.
The Ken Basin is located in the eastern parts of the state, and covers an area of approximately 24,000 square kilometers. The Ken River is a major tributary of the Yamuna River, and is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife.
The Son Basin is located in the southern and western parts of the state, and covers an area of approximately 37,000 square kilometers. The Son River is a major tributary of the Ganges River, and is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife.
III. Drainage System of Uttar Pradesh
Parallel drainage pattern is found in the plains of Uttar Pradesh. This type of drainage pattern is formed when the rivers flow in parallel lines. The rivers in the plains of Uttar Pradesh are typically braided and anastomosing, and they are prone to flooding.
The parallel drainage pattern in the plains of Uttar Pradesh is caused by the flat and low-lying topography of the region. The rivers are unable to flow in a single direction, and they are instead forced to flow in parallel lines.
The parallel drainage pattern in the plains of Uttar Pradesh has a number of implications for the region. The rivers are often braided and anastomose, and they are prone to flooding.
Drainage System of Uttar Pradesh Type of drainage System
Examples of the parallel drainage pattern in Uttar Pradesh:
The Ganga and Yamuna rivers flow parallel to each other for over 100 kilometers before merging at Allahabad.
The Ghaghara and Rapti rivers flow parallel to each other for over 200 kilometers before merging at Gorakhpur.
The Gomti and Sai rivers flow parallel to each other for over 150 kilometers before merging at Lucknow.
Types of rivers in Uttar Pradesh based on their place of origin
The rivers of Uttar Pradesh can be divided into three types based on their place of origin:
Himalayan rivers: These rivers originate in the Himalayas and are perennial in nature. They have a steady flow of water throughout the year because their source of water is both glaciers and rain. Examples of Himalayan rivers in Uttar Pradesh include the Ganga, Yamuna, Ramganga, Gandak, and Ghaghara.
Rivers originating from lakes and swamps: These rivers originate in the plains of Uttar Pradesh and are seasonal in nature. They depend on monsoon rainfalls and their water levels reduce considerably in summer. Examples of rivers originating from lakes and swamps in Uttar Pradesh include the Gomti, Varuna, Sai, Pando, and Isan.
Rivers originating from plateaus and the Vindhya ranges: These rivers originate in the south of Uttar Pradesh and are seasonal in nature. They depend on monsoon rainfalls and often lack water in summer, mostly drying up. Examples of rivers originating from plateaus and the Vindhya ranges in Uttar Pradesh include the Chambal, Sindh, Betwa, Ken, Tons, Kanhar, Rihand, and Son.
IV. Significant Rivers of UP
A. Introduction to key rivers
Uttar Pradesh is home to a number of important rivers, including the Ganga, Yamuna, Ramganga, Sharda, Ghaghara, Rapti, Gomti, Gandak, Chambal, Betwa, Ken, Tons, Karmnasha, Son, and Hindon. These rivers play a vital role in the state's economy, agriculture, and culture.
The Ganga is the most sacred river in India and the lifeline of Uttar Pradesh. It originates in the Himalayas and flows through the state for over 1,000 kilometers. The Ganga is home to a diverse range of aquatic life and plays a vital role in the state's economy and agriculture. It is also a major pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
The Yamuna is another important river in Uttar Pradesh. It is the largest tributary of the Ganga and flows through the state for over 700 kilometers. The Yamuna is a major source of irrigation and drinking water for the state. It is also home to a number of important cultural and religious sites.
The Ramganga, Sharda, Ghaghara, Rapti, Gomti, Gandak, Chambal, Betwa, Ken, Tons, Karmnasha, Son, and Hindon rivers are all important tributaries of the Ganga and Yamuna. They play a vital role in the state's irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydropower generation. They also provide habitat for a variety of aquatic life and support a number of cultural and religious activities.
B. Detailed descriptions for each major river
1. The Ganga
The Ganga is the most important and the largest river basin in India and the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is an international river as it passes through Bangladesh before merging into the Bay of Bengal. The Ganga is India's most important and sacred river, which is why it is referred to as "Gangaji" and not just "Ganga". It is the lifeline of millions of people who depend on it for their drinking water, irrigation, and livelihood.
The Ganga originates as Bhagirathi from the Gaumukh (Gangotri Glacier) in the Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand at an elevation of about 3,900 m. As it progresses, it receives the waters of various rivers such as Rudraganga, Jadganga, Asiganga, Siyaganga. At Ganesh Prayag (East Tehri), it is joined by the Bhilangana River, and at their confluence, the Tehri project is located. At Devprayag, the Bhagirathi meets the Alaknanda; hereafter, it is known as the Ganga.
The Ganga is a revered river in Hinduism. It is believed that a dip in the Ganga can wash away one's sins and lead to moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). The Ganga is also home to a number of important Hindu pilgrimage sites, including Haridwar, Varanasi, and Rishikesh.
The Panch Prayag: Five Sacred Confluences of the Ganga
Map of Panch Prayag
The Panch Prayag, or five sacred confluences, are located in the upper reaches of the Ganga River. These confluences are considered to be holy sites by Hindus and are visited by millions of pilgrims each year.
The five confluences are:
Vishnu Prayag: The confluence of the Alaknanda and Dhauli Ganga rivers.
Nand Prayag: The confluence of the Alaknanda and Nandakini rivers.
Karna Prayag: The confluence of the Alaknanda and Pindar rivers.
Rudra Prayag: The confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
Dev Prayag: The confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, where the Ganga River is officially born.
Each of the Panch Prayag is associated with a different Hindu deity. Vishnu Prayag is associated with Lord Vishnu, Nand Prayag is associated with Lord Shiva, Karna Prayag is associated with Lord Karna, Rudra Prayag is associated with Lord Rudra, and Dev Prayag is associated with Lord Brahma.
The Panch Prayag are located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The journey to the Panch Prayag is challenging, but it is a rewarding experience for pilgrims. The trek to the Panch Prayag offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the Ganga River.
The Journey of the Ganga
After the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda at Dev Prayag, the river is known as the Ganga. It flows for about 289 km from its source to Haridwar, where it debouches from the hills and enters the plains. From Haridwar, it flows in a south and south-easterly direction for a distance of 770 km to reach Prayagraj. Here, it is joined by the Yamuna, which is its longest and most important tributary.
The Ganga then crosses another 300 km eastward to reach the plains of Bihar. Near the Rajmahal Hills, it turns to the south-east and south of Farakka. Here, it ceases to be known as the Ganga and bifurcates itself into the Hugli in the west and the Padma in the east (Bangladesh).
The Hugli merges into the Bay of Bengal near Haldia, while the Padma flows through Bangladesh before merging into the Bay of Bengal near Chandpur.
The Ganga in Uttar Pradesh
Flowing from the Ganga river in Uttar Pradesh, we find a remarkable network of tributaries that gracefully contribute to the state's drainage system. These rivers play a vital role in shaping the region's landscape and sustaining its ecosystems:
Left Bank Tributaries:
The Ganga's left bank welcomes several significant rivers, including the Ramganga, Gomti, and Ghaghra. These waterways join forces to enhance the state's natural resources and ecological diversity.
Right Bank Tributaries:
On the right bank of the Ganga, one can witness the confluence of major rivers such as the Yamuna, Tons, and Karmanasha. Their union further enriches the state's water resources and environmental vitality.
Ganga's Path Through 27 Districts:
The mighty Ganga flows gracefully through the heart of Uttar Pradesh, touching no less than 27 districts in its journey. These districts include Muzaffarnagar, Bijnor, Meerut, Amroha, Hapur, Bulandshahr, Aligarh, Sambhal, Badaun, Kasganj, Farrukhabad, Shahjahanpur, Kannauj, Hardoi, Unnao, Kanpur Dehat, Kanpur Nagar, Pratapgarh, Rae Bareli, Fatehpur, Kaushambi, Prayagraj, Bhadohi, Mirzapur, Chandauli, Varanasi, Ghazipur, and Ballia. The Ganga's influence extends far and wide, connecting these diverse regions and communities to its life-sustaining waters.
The confluence of the Ganges and other rivers
2. The Yamuna
The Yamuna is the longest tributary of the Ganges, with a length of about 1,376 km. It originates in the Himalayas, in the Yamunotri Glacier at a height of about 6,387 meters (20,984 feet). It flows east through the plains of North India, across the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana, and is joined by many tributaries, including the Chambal, the Betwa, and the Ken. The Yamuna River finally meets the Ganges at Triveni Sangam, in Prayagraj, which is a site of the Kumbh Mela, a Hindu festival held every 12 years.
Some of the key places where the Yamuna flows through Uttar Pradesh:
Mathura: Mathura is a holy city for Hindus and is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The Yamuna River flows through the heart of Mathura, and its banks are lined with temples and shrines.
Vrindavan: Vrindavan is another important pilgrimage site for Hindus and is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. The Yamuna River flows through Vrindavan, and its banks are home to a number of temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort, Radha.
Agra: Agra is home to the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The Yamuna River flows through Agra, and the Taj Mahal is located on its banks.
Firozabad: Firozabad is a major industrial city in Uttar Pradesh. The Yamuna River flows through Firozabad, and the city is known for its glass industry.
Etawah: Etawah is a city in Uttar Pradesh that is known for its leather industry. The Yamuna River flows through Etawah, and the city is also home to the Etawah Bird Sanctuary.
Tributaries of Yamuna
3. The Ramganga
The Ramganga River is a sacred river in Uttar Pradesh. It is also known as the Western Ramganga River to differentiate it from another river called Ramganga, which is a tributary of the Saryu River.
The Ramganga River originates in the Pauri district of Uttarakhand and flows through the Shivalik range before entering the plains of Uttar Pradesh. It passes through the districts of Bijnor, Moradabad, Bareilly, Badaun, Shahjahanpur, Farrukhabad, and Hardoi before joining the Ganges River in Hardoi district.
The Ramganga River is a lifeline for millions of people in Uttar Pradesh. It provides water for drinking, irrigation, and hydropower generation. It is also a major source of fish and other aquatic life.
The Ramganga River is also a sacred river for Hindus. It is believed that Lord Rama bathed in the river after killing Ravana. The river is also mentioned in the Ramayana, one of the most sacred Hindu texts.
The Ramganga River is a beautiful and majestic river. It is a source of life and sustenance for millions of people in Uttar Pradesh. It is also a sacred river for Hindus.
4. The Sharda (Kali)
The Ramganga-Kali River is a beautiful and important river in the Himalayas. It originates from two places: Kalapani in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand (the Ramganga) and the Milam glacier (the Gauri Ganga). The two rivers meet in Jauljeevi, and after Tanakpur, the river is known as the Sharda. It enters the plains near Brahmadev and first flows through the Pilibhit district in Uttar Pradesh. It then joins the Karnali (Ghaghara River) near Sitapur's Basra or Baharamghat.
The Ramganga-Kali River is a source of life for many people in the Himalayas and the plains of Uttar Pradesh. It provides water for drinking, irrigation, and hydropower generation. It is also a popular destination for rafting and other water sports.The Kali River is a transboundary river, meaning that it flows through two or more countries. In this case, the Kali River flows through India and Nepal.
5. The Ghaghara
The Ghaghara River, also known as the Karnali River, is a major tributary of the Ganga River. It is the largest river in Nepal and the third largest in Uttar Pradesh. The Ghaghara River originates in the Tibetan Plateau and flows through Nepal and India. It enters India near Bahraich in Uttar Pradesh and flows through the districts of Bahraich, Gonda, Ballia, and Ghazipur before joining the Ganga River at Chhapra in Bihar.
The Ghaghara River is a snow-fed river and is therefore perennial in nature. It has a catchment area of over 140,000 square kilometers and a length of over 1,000 kilometers. Ghaghra, also known as Mapcha Tsangpo in Tibet, Karnali in Nepal, and Saryu near Ayodhya, is a 1080 km long river that flows through Tibet, Nepal, and India. It joins the Ganga near Chhapra in Uttar Pradesh.
Tributaries of the Ghaghara River
Left bank tributaries: The major left bank tributaries of the Ghaghara River are the Rapti, the Gandak, and the Burhi Gandak rivers.
Right bank tributaries: The major right bank tributaries of the Ghaghara River are the Chambal, the Betwa, and the Ken rivers.
6. The Rapti
The Rapti River is a transboundary river that flows through Nepal and India. It originates in the Mahabharata Range of the Himalayas in Nepal and flows south through the Chitwan National Park and the Indian states of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. It joins the Ghaghara River near Lakhimpur Kheri in Uttar Pradesh.The Rapti River is a seasonal river, with its flow varying significantly from season to season. The highest flow occurs during the monsoon season, when the river can swell to over 100 meters wide and 3 meters deep. The lowest flow occurs during the dry season, when the river can shrink to a few meters wide and a few centimeters deep.Flowing through Bahraich, Shravasti, Balrampur, Siddharthnagar, Sant Kabir Nagar and Gorakhpur of the state, it joins the Ghaghra river near a place called Barhaj in Deoria. Its total length is 640 km.
Geographical aspects of the Rapti River:
Course: The Rapti River flows for over 600 kilometers from its source in the Himalayas to its confluence with the Ghaghara River. It flows through a variety of terrain, including mountains, forests, and plains.
Drainage basin: The Rapti River has a drainage basin of over 16,000 square kilometers. The drainage basin includes parts of Nepal and India.
Climate: The climate of the Rapti River basin varies from subtropical in the plains to alpine in the mountains.
Flora and fauna: The Rapti River basin is home to a variety of plant and animal life. The river is also an important habitat for migratory birds.
Specific geographical features of the Rapti River:
The Rapti Gorge: The Rapti Gorge is a deep gorge that is located in the Chitwan National Park in Nepal. The gorge is up to 100 meters deep and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses.
The Rapti Rapids: The Rapti Rapids are located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The rapids are a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking.
The Rapti Delta: The Rapti Delta is located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The delta is a fertile area that is used for agriculture and aquaculture.
7. The Gomti
The Gomti River is a major river in Uttar Pradesh, India. It originates from a lake known as "Fullhar Jheel" near Mainkot in Madhotanda town 30 km east of Pilibhit at an elevation of 185 m. The total stretch of the river is 960 km, finally merging with the Ganges at Ghazipur in the Varanasi district. It drains a basin of about 7,240 square miles (18,750 square km).
The Gomti River is a groundwater-fed river in the Gangetic alluvial plain. It flows through a number of districts in Uttar Pradesh, including Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Sitapur, Lucknow, Barabanki, Sultanpur, Jaunpur, and Ghazipur.
The geographical features of the Gomti River:
Source: Fullhar Jheel, near Mainkot in Madhotanda town, Uttar Pradesh
Length: 960 km
Drainage basin: 7,240 square miles (18,750 square km)
Major tributaries: Sai River, Kathaina River, Sarayan River
Major cities on its banks: Lucknow, Sultanpur, Jaunpur, Ghazipur
8. The Gandak
The Gandak River is a major river in Nepal and India. It originates in the Himalayas in Nepal and flows through the Indian states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The river is about 630 km long, with a drainage basin of over 29,700 km2.
Choti Gandak
A thin river that emerges from the Narayani River on the border of Nepal and Uttar Pradesh.
Flows through Maharajganj, Kushinagar, and Deoria.
Joins the Ghaghra River east of Salempur.
Badi Gandak
Also known as the Great Gandak or simply the Gandak.
Originates from the confluence of the Kaligandaki and Trishul Ganga Rivers in Nepal.
Flows through Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Forms the border between Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Joins the Ganga River near Patna in Bihar.
Geographical features of the Gandak River:
Source: The Gandak River originates in the Himalayas in Nepal, near the border with Tibet. The source of the river is a glacier at an elevation of over 7,600 meters.
Course: The Gandak River flows southwest into India and then turns southeast along the Uttar Pradesh–Bihar state border. It enters the Ganges River opposite Patna after a winding course of 475 miles (765 km).
Tributaries: The Gandak River has a number of tributaries, including the Burhi Gandak, the Bagmati, and the Kamala.
Drainage basin: The drainage basin of the Gandak River covers over 29,700 km2. The drainage basin includes parts of Nepal and India.
Land use: The land use in the Gandak River basin is varied. The basin includes forests, agricultural land, and urban areas.
Climate: The climate in the Gandak River basin is tropical monsoon. The basin receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.
9. The Chambal
The Chambal River is a major river in central India. It originates in the Vindhya Mountains in Madhya Pradesh and flows through the states of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh before joining the Yamuna River in Etawah, Uttar Pradesh.
The Chambal River is a meandering river with a braided channel. It is a relatively shallow river, with an average depth of about 5 meters. The river is also highly silt-laden, which makes it difficult to navigate.
The Chambal River basin covers an area of about 110,000 square kilometers. The basin is home to a variety of landforms, including mountains, plateaus, and plains. The river also supports a variety of ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands.
Geographical aspects of the Chambal River:
Origin: The Chambal River originates in the Vindhya Mountains in Madhya Pradesh, at an elevation of about 1,000 meters above sea level.
Course: The Chambal River flows in a generally west-southwest direction through the states of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
Length: The Chambal River is about 950 kilometers long.
Discharge: The average discharge of the Chambal River is about 3,000 cubic meters per second.
Tributaries: The Chambal River has many tributaries, including the Banas, Kali Sindh, Parbati, and Betwa rivers.
Drainage basin: The Chambal River drainage basin covers an area of about 110,000 square kilometers.
10. The Betwa
The Betwa River is a major tributary of the Yamuna River. It originates in the Vindhya Mountains in Madhya Pradesh and flows through the states of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. The Betwa River is about 720 kilometers long and has a drainage basin of about 40,000 square kilometers.The Betwa River is an important source of water for irrigation and drinking in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. The river is also used for hydropower generation and aquaculture.
Geographical features of the Betwa River:
The Betwa River originates in the Vindhya Mountains in Madhya Pradesh at an elevation of about 1,100 meters above sea level.
The Betwa River flows through a number of valleys and gorges in the Vindhya Mountains.
The Betwa River enters the plains of Uttar Pradesh at the town of Hamirpur.
The Betwa River flows through the Chambal Valley in Uttar Pradesh.
The Betwa River joins the Yamuna River at the town of Etawah in Uttar Pradesh.
11. The Ken
The Ken River is a tributary of the Yamuna River. It originates at an elevation of 550 metres above mean sea level (msl) in the Ahirgawan Village of the Jabalpur District in Madhya Pradesh. The Ken River flows through the states of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, and it covers a total basin area of 28,058 square kilometers. Out of its total length of 427 kilometers (km), it flows for 292 km in Madhya Pradesh, 84 km in Uttar Pradesh, and 51 km forms the boundary between the two states.
The Ken River basin is characterized by a variety of geographical features, including hills, plateaus, and plains. The river basin lies in the Vindhyan Range, which is a series of hills and plateaus in central India. The Vindhyan Range is made up of sandstone, limestone, and shale. The Ken River flows through the Vindhyan Range, and it has created a number of gorges and waterfalls along the way.
The Ken River basin also includes a number of plateaus, including the Malwa Plateau and the Bundelkhand Plateau. The Malwa Plateau is a large plateau in central India that is made up of basalt rock. The Bundelkhand Plateau is a smaller plateau that is located between the Vindhyan Range and the Malwa Plateau. The Ken River flows through both of these plateaus.
The Ken River basin also includes a number of plains, including the Gangetic Plain and the Narmada Plain. The Gangetic Plain is a large plain in northern India that is made up of alluvial soil. The Narmada Plain is a smaller plain that is located between the Vindhyan Range and the Satpura Range. The Ken River flows through both of these plains.
12. The Tons
The Tons River is a major tributary of the Yamuna River and one of the most important rivers in Uttar Pradesh. It originates in the Bandarpunch Glacier in the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand and flows through the states of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh before joining the Yamuna at Sirsa in Prayagraj.
The Tons River is a perennial river, meaning that it flows throughout the year. It has a total length of about 470 km and a drainage area of about 11,000 sq km.
Geographical aspects of the Tons River:
Course: The Tons River originates in the Bandarpunch Glacier in the Garhwal Himalayas and flows in a south-easterly direction through the states of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh before joining the Yamuna at Sirsa in Prayagraj.
Drainage area: The Tons River has a drainage area of about 11,000 sq km. This means that the Tons River basin covers an area of about 11,000 sq km.
Gradient: The Tons River has a steep gradient. This means that the river falls from a high altitude to a low altitude over a relatively short distance.
13. The Karmnasha
The Karmanasha River is a tributary of the Ganges River that flows through the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. It originates in the Kaimur Hills of Bihar and flows westward for about 200 kilometers before joining the Ganges near Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh.
Geographical aspects of the Karmanasha River:
Course: The Karmanasha River originates in the Kaimur Hills of Bihar and flows westward for about 200 kilometers before joining the Ganges near Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh.
Length: The Karmanasha River is about 200 kilometers long.
Altitude: The Karmanasha River originates at an altitude of about 600 meters above sea level and flows to an altitude of about 100 meters above sea level.
Drainage basin: The drainage basin of the Karmanasha River is about 4,000 square kilometers.
14. The Son
The Son River is a major tributary of the Ganges River. It originates in the Chhota Nagpur Plateau in Jharkhand and flows through the states of Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. The Son River is about 784 km long and has a drainage basin of about 88,000 square kilometers.The Son River is a seasonal river, with its peak flow occurring during
Geographical aspects of the Son River:
Origin: The Son River originates in the Chhota Nagpur Plateau in Jharkhand, at an elevation of about 600 meters above sea level.
Course: The Son River flows generally eastward through the states of Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. It joins the Ganges River at Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh.
Drainage basin: The Son River has a drainage basin of about 88,000 square kilometers. This drainage basin covers parts of Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.
Tributaries: The Son River has a number of tributaries, including the Bansagar River, the Rihand River, and the Tons River.
15. The Hindon
he Hindon River is a monsoon-fed river that originates in the Shakumbhari Devi range (Upper Siwaliks) in Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It flows for 400 kilometers (250 mi) through Muzaffarnagar district, Meerut district, Baghpat district, Ghaziabad district and Gautam Buddh Nagar district before it joins Yamuna river at Sector-150, Noida.
Geographical aspects of the Hindon River:
Catchment area and drainage pattern
The Hindon River has a catchment area of about 7,083 square kilometers (2,735 sq mi). The drainage pattern of the river is dendritic, which means that the tributaries branch out like the branches of a tree.
Course of the river
The Hindon River originates in the Shakumbhari Devi range in Saharanpur district. It flows in a southwestern direction through Muzaffarnagar district, Meerut district, Baghpat district, Ghaziabad district and Gautam Buddh Nagar district before it joins Yamuna river at Sector-150, Noida.
Tributaries
The main tributaries of the Hindon River are:
Kali River
Eastern Yamuna Canal
Western Yamuna Canal
Meerut Canal
Upper Ganga Canal
V. Summary
Introduction
The drainage system of Uttar Pradesh is important for a number of reasons. It helps to prevent flooding, improve water quality, reduce the risk of disease, and improve the overall appearance of the state.
Watersheds & Drainage Basins
A watershed is an area of land that drains water into a common body of water. The drainage system of Uttar Pradesh is divided into a number of watersheds, including the Ganga Basin, Yamuna Basin, Gandak Basin, Ghaghara Basin, Chambal Basin, Betwa Basin, Ken Basin, and Son Basin.
Drainage System of Uttar Pradesh
The drainage system of Uttar Pradesh is characterized by a parallel drainage pattern. This means that the rivers in the state flow in parallel lines. This type of drainage pattern is caused by the flat and low-lying topography of the region.
Major Rivers of Uttar Pradesh
The major rivers of Uttar Pradesh are the Ganges, Yamuna, Gandak, Ghaghara, Chambal, Betwa, Ken, and Son. These rivers are all important sources of water for irrigation, drinking water, industrial water, and hydroelectric power for the people of Uttar Pradesh.
Challenges Facing the Drainage System of Uttar Pradesh
The drainage system of Uttar Pradesh faces a number of challenges, including:
Pollution: The rivers of Uttar Pradesh are polluted by domestic and industrial waste. This pollution can have a negative impact on water quality and human health.
Overexploitation: The rivers of Uttar Pradesh are overexploited for irrigation and drinking water. This overexploitation can lead to water shortages and environmental degradation.
Encroachment: The floodplains of the rivers of Uttar Pradesh are being encroached upon by human development. This encroachment can increase the risk of flooding.
Climate change: Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts. This will put additional stress on the drainage system of Uttar Pradesh.
Conclusion
The drainage system of Uttar Pradesh is essential for the health and safety of the people of the state. It is important to protect and conserve the drainage system from pollution, overexploitation, and encroachment. This will help to ensure that the drainage system continues to provide clean water and a healthy environment for the people of Uttar Pradesh.
Question and Solution:
Q1:Which of the following is NOT a major river in the drainage system of Uttar Pradesh?
(A) Ganga
(B) Yamuna
(C) Ghaghara
(D) Betwa
Answer: (D) Betwa
The Betwa River is NOT a major river in the drainage system of Uttar Pradesh.
Important Points:
The Ganga, Yamuna, and Ghaghara rivers are all major rivers in the drainage system of Uttar Pradesh.
The Betwa River flows through the southern part of Uttar Pradesh, but it is not considered to be a major river in the state.The other three rivers, the Ganga, Yamuna, and Ghaghara, are all major rivers in the drainage system of Uttar Pradesh. The Ganga is the largest river in India, and it flows through Uttar Pradesh for over 1450 km. The Yamuna is the second largest river in India, and it flows through Uttar Pradesh for over 700 km.The Ghaghara is a major tributary of the Ganges, and it flows through Uttar Pradesh for over 600 km.
Q 2:What is the name of the government program that aims to clean up the Ganges River?
(A) Namami Gange
(B) Swachh Bharat Mission
(C) Clean Ganga Project
(D) All of the above
Answer: (A) Namami Gange
The government program that aims to clean up the Ganges River is Namami Gange.
Important Points:
Namami Gange is an integrated conservation mission approved as a Flagship Programme by the Union Government of India in June 2014.
The program aims to clean and rejuvenate the Ganges River.
It is a comprehensive program that includes initiatives such as sewage treatment, riverfront development, and afforestation.
The program is being implemented by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG).
Q3:What is the main challenge facing the drainage system of Uttar Pradesh?
(A) Pollution
(B) Overexploitation of water resources
(C) Climate change
(D) All of the above
Answer: (D) All of the above
The drainage system of Uttar Pradesh is facing challenges from pollution, overexploitation of water resources, and climate change.
Important Points:
Pollution is a major challenge facing the drainage system of Uttar Pradesh. Industrial and domestic waste are often discharged into drains without proper treatment, which pollutes the water and makes it unfit for use.
Overexploitation of water resources is another challenge. When too much water is extracted from aquifers, the water table drops, which can lead to land subsidence and salt water intrusion. This can damage drainage systems and make it difficult to remove water from low-lying areas.
Climate change is also a threat to the drainage system of Uttar Pradesh. More extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall and droughts, can put stress on the system and make it more difficult to manage.
Q 4:Which of the following is NOT a type of drainage system found in Uttar Pradesh?
(A) Surface drainage system
(B) Subsurface drainage system
(C) Canal system
(D) Aqueduct system
Answer: (B) Aqueduct system
Aqueduct systems are not used in Uttar Pradesh for drainage purposes.
Important Points:
Surface drainage systems collect and remove rainwater from the surface of the ground.
Subsurface drainage systems collect and remove water from the ground below the surface.
Canal systems are used to transport water for irrigation, drinking, and other purposes.
Aqueduct systems are used to transport water over long distances.
They are typically used to transport water from a source to a destination, such as from a river to a city.
Aqueduct systems are not commonly used for drainage purposes.
Q 5:What is the name of the tributary of the Yamuna River that flows through Allahabad?
(A) Gomti
(B) Rapti
(C) Chambal
(D) Hindon
Answer: (A) Gomti
The tributary of the Yamuna River that flows through Allahabad is Gomti.
Important Points:
The Yamuna River is one of the major tributaries of the Ganges River.
Allahabad is a city in India located at the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers.
The Gomti River is a tributary of the Yamuna River that flows through Allahabad.
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