Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 78

Most of the major rivers of the Peninsula such as the Mahanadi, the Godavari, the Krishna and the Kaveri flow eastwards and drain into the

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the direction of the flow of the rivers mentioned.

Correct Answer: B) Bay of Bengal.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC, Geography Olympiad

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The drainage pattern of rivers in a region is determined by the topography and geological features of the area. In the case of the Indian Peninsula, the major rivers such as the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri flow eastwards and drain into the Bay of Bengal. This drainage pattern is a result of the orientation of the Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of the Indian Peninsula.

The Western Ghats act as a natural barrier, causing the rivers to flow eastwards towards the Bay of Bengal. The Bay of Bengal is a large body of water located to the east of the Indian Peninsula, and it receives the waters of these major rivers. The Bay of Bengal is part of the Indian Ocean, but it is a distinct geographical feature that is specifically named in this context.

It is important to understand the geographical layout of the Indian subcontinent to comprehend the drainage patterns of its rivers. The Indian Peninsula is a triangular landmass that extends southwards into the Indian Ocean. The western coast of the peninsula is bordered by the Arabian Sea, while the eastern coast is bordered by the Bay of Bengal. The rivers that originate in the Western Ghats and flow eastwards are part of the east-flowing river system, which is distinct from the west-flowing river system that drains into the Arabian Sea.

The east-flowing rivers of the Indian Peninsula play a crucial role in the region's agriculture, economy, and ecology. They provide water for irrigation, support diverse ecosystems, and are vital for the livelihoods of millions of people living in the river basins. Understanding the drainage patterns of these rivers is essential for managing water resources, planning infrastructure, and addressing environmental issues in the region.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect because the rivers mentioned flow eastwards and do not drain into the Arabian Sea, which is located to the west of the Indian Peninsula.
  • Option B: This option is correct because the major rivers of the Indian Peninsula, such as the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri, flow eastwards and drain into the Bay of Bengal.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect because while the Bay of Bengal is part of the Indian Ocean, the specific term "Indian Ocean" is too broad and does not accurately describe the specific body of water into which these rivers drain.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect because the rivers do indeed drain into a specific body of water, the Bay of Bengal, and are not left undrained.

Mnemonic: Remember: "Big Bay" for Bay of Bengal.

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