How are the Himalayan ranges oriented in Arunachal Pradesh?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is: (C) Northwest to southeast

• In Arunachal Pradesh, the Himalayan ranges are oriented from northwest to southeast.

• This is due to the curvature of the Eastern Himalayas, where the mountain system takes a turn from the general west-east orientation (seen in western Himalayas) to a northwest-southeast alignment as they approach the eastern end of India.

• This alignment affects river flow patterns, vegetation, and climate in the region.

• The Eastern Himalayas, especially in Arunachal Pradesh, include ranges like the Dafla Hills, Mishmi Hills, Abor Hills, and Patkai Hills.

• Rivers like the Siang (Brahmaputra), Subansiri, and Lohit carve deep valleys through these ranges.

• This region is part of the Purvanchal Hills, which are an extension of the Himalayas into northeastern India.

• Arunachal Pradesh shares an international boundary with China (Tibet), Bhutan, and Myanmar, influencing its terrain orientation.

• The orientation also creates diverse climatic zones, from tropical in valleys to alpine in higher reaches.

• Option A (Southwest to northwest) is geographically incorrect for this region.

• Option B (North to south) reflects river orientation, not the mountains.

• Option D (East to west) represents the typical alignment of Western Himalayas (e.g., Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand).

• The Himalayan bend occurs near Namcha Barwa (Tibet), where the ranges sharply turn and enter Arunachal Pradesh.

• This region is seismically active and ecologically sensitive due to its complex tectonic structure and biodiversity.