Explanation: The Western Ghats are a significant mountain range in India, running parallel to the western coast. The windward side of the Western Ghats is the side that faces the prevailing winds, which in this case are the moist winds from the Arabian Sea. When these winds encounter the Western Ghats, they are forced to rise, leading to the formation of clouds and precipitation. This phenomenon is known as the orographic effect and is responsible for the high rainfall received by the windward side of the Western Ghats.
Goa and Mumbai are both located on the western coast of India, directly facing the Arabian Sea. As a result, they are situated on the windward side of the Western Ghats. Goa, in particular, is known for its heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which is a direct consequence of the orographic effect. Similarly, Mumbai, being a coastal city, also receives significant rainfall due to the same effect.
On the other hand, Pune is located inland, on the eastern side of the Western Ghats. This places it on the leeward side, where the winds have already lost much of their moisture after crossing the mountains. Therefore, Pune receives less rainfall compared to the windward side cities like Goa and Mumbai.
Understanding the geographical features and the impact of wind patterns on rainfall is crucial for comprehending the climate and weather patterns in different regions of India. The Western Ghats play a significant role in shaping the climate of the western coast, making it a vital topic in Indian geography and environmental studies.