Explanations:
Kerala, a state in southwestern India, is known for its numerous rivers that play a significant role in the state's geography, economy, and culture. The majority of these rivers flow westwards into the Arabian Sea, but a few notable rivers flow eastwards into neighboring states such as Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Understanding the direction of flow of these rivers is essential for comprehending the geographical layout of Kerala and its interactions with other states.
The rivers in Kerala can be categorized based on their direction of flow. The westward-flowing rivers are the most prominent and include the Periyar, Pamba, Achankovil, and Bharathappuzha. These rivers are crucial for irrigation, transportation, and hydroelectric power generation. However, the question specifically asks about the eastward-flowing rivers, which are fewer in number but equally important.
The eastward-flowing rivers in Kerala include the Paampar, Bhavani, and Kabani. The Paampar and Kabani rivers originate in the Western Ghats and flow eastwards into the state of Karnataka. The Bhavani River, although it originates in Kerala, flows eastwards into Tamil Nadu. These rivers are significant for their role in the ecological and economic systems of both Kerala and the neighboring states.
It is important to note that the direction of flow of a river is determined by the topography of the region. In the case of Kerala, the Western Ghats form a natural barrier that influences the direction of the rivers. The westward-flowing rivers are influenced by the slope of the land towards the Arabian Sea, while the eastward-flowing rivers are influenced by the slope towards the eastern plains.
Understanding the geographical orientation of rivers in Kerala is crucial for various fields, including geography, environmental science, and civil engineering. It helps in planning water resource management, flood control, and the development of hydroelectric power projects. Additionally, this knowledge is often tested in competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and State PSC, where candidates are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of the geographical features of different states in India.