📚 Part of: Kerala Geography And Education Mcqs

Three rivers in Kerala are flowing eastwards. How many of you know the names?

Category: Kerala Gk

Correct Answer: C) Paampar, Bhavani & Kabani.

Exam Relevance: Kerala PSC, UPSC, Geography Olympiad

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes:

Kerala, a state in southern India, is known for its network of rivers that play a significant role in its geography and economy. While most of Kerala's rivers flow westwards into the Arabian Sea, a few rivers flow eastwards into the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The rivers Paampar, Bhavani, and Kabani are notable for their eastward flow.

Common Mistakes:
  • Confusing the direction of flow of rivers in Kerala.
  • Misidentifying rivers that flow into the Arabian Sea as eastward flowing rivers.
  • Not being aware of the specific rivers that flow eastwards.
Explanation:

Kerala, a state in southern India, is renowned for its extensive network of rivers that are integral to its geography, economy, and culture. The majority of Kerala's rivers flow westwards into the Arabian Sea, but a few rivers flow eastwards into the neighboring states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Understanding the direction of flow of these rivers is crucial for comprehending the geographical layout of Kerala.

The rivers in Kerala can be categorized based on their direction of flow. The westward flowing rivers, such as the Periyar, Pamba, and Achankovil, are the most prominent and are well-known for their role in the state's water resources and agriculture. However, the eastward flowing rivers, though fewer in number, are equally significant in understanding the broader geographical context of the region.

Among the eastward flowing rivers, the Paampar, Bhavani, and Kabani are notable. The Paampar River is a small tributary that flows into the Bhavani River, which is a major tributary of the Cauvery River system. The Bhavani River, originating in the Western Ghats, flows through the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu before joining the Cauvery River. The Kabani River, also known as the Kapila River, originates in the Wayanad district of Kerala and flows into Karnataka, eventually joining the Cauvery River system.

It is important to note that the eastward flowing rivers are fewer in number and smaller in size compared to the westward flowing rivers. This is due to the topography of Kerala, which is characterized by the Western Ghats on the western side and the plains on the eastern side. The Western Ghats act as a natural barrier, influencing the direction of flow of the rivers.

In conclusion, the rivers Paampar, Bhavani, and Kabani are the correct eastward flowing rivers in Kerala. Understanding the geographical distribution and flow direction of these rivers is essential for comprehending the broader geographical context of the state and its neighboring regions.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Incorrect. The rivers Paampar and Meenachil are not eastward flowing rivers. The Meenachil River flows into the Arabian Sea, while the Paampar River is a small tributary of the Meenachil. The Manimala River also flows into the Arabian Sea, not eastwards.
  • Option B: Incorrect. The rivers Bhavani and Kuttyadi do not flow eastwards. The Bhavani River flows into the Cauvery River system, but it is not located in Kerala. The Kuttyadi and Kuppam rivers flow into the Arabian Sea.
  • Option C: Correct. The rivers Paampar, Bhavani, and Kabani are indeed eastward flowing rivers. The Paampar River flows into the Bhavani River, which is a tributary of the Cauvery River. The Kabani River, also known as the Kapila River, flows into Karnataka and joins the Cauvery River system.
  • Option D: Incorrect. The Periyar and Muvattupuzha rivers flow into the Arabian Sea, not eastwards. The Kabani River is the only eastward flowing river in this option.

Mnemonic: P-B-K: Paampar, Bhavani, Kabani

⬅️ Back to Kerala Geography And Education Mcqs – Practice all questions