Explanations:The Western Ghats are a significant mountain range in India that runs parallel to the western coast. The term "windward side" refers to the side of the mountain range that faces the prevailing winds, in this case, the monsoon winds that blow from the Arabian Sea. The windward side of the Western Ghats receives more rainfall due to the orographic effect, where the mountains force the moist air to rise, cool, and condense, leading to precipitation.
Goa and Mumbai are both located on the windward side of the Western Ghats. Goa, situated on the western coast of India, is directly exposed to the monsoon winds, making it one of the wettest regions in India. Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is also on the windward side and receives significant rainfall during the monsoon season. The city's location on the coast and the presence of the Western Ghats to its east contribute to its high precipitation levels.
In contrast, Pune, located further inland, is on the leeward side of the Western Ghats. The leeward side, or the side away from the prevailing winds, receives less rainfall because the majority of the moisture has already been precipitated on the windward side. As a result, Pune experiences a drier climate compared to Goa and Mumbai.
Understanding the geographical orientation and the impact of the monsoon winds on the Western Ghats is crucial for identifying which regions are on the windward side. This knowledge is essential for various fields, including meteorology, agriculture, and urban planning, as it influences the distribution of rainfall and the resulting ecosystems and human activities in these regions.