Which of the following rivers is called the 'Dakshin Ganga'?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (D) Godavari

Information Booster:

1. Tapi (or Tapti River)

• Origin:
• The Tapi River originates from the Satpura ranges near Multai in Madhya Pradesh.
•  Flows through Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
• Empties into the Arabian Sea near Surat, Gujarat.
• Tributaries: Major tributaries include Purna, Girna, and Panjhra.

Significance:

• Provides irrigation and drinking water in the regions it flows through.
• The Ukai Dam on the Tapi is a key irrigation and hydroelectric project..

2. Periyar River

• Origin:
  The Periyar originates from the Sivagiri hills of the Western Ghats in Kerala.
• Flows entirely within Kerala.
• Empties into the Arabian Sea near Kochi.
• Tributaries: Notable ones include Muthirapuzha, Mullayar, and Cheruthoni.

Significance:

• The Periyar is often referred to as the "Lifeline of Kerala" for its role in irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectricity.
• Hosts the Mullaperiyar Dam, a historically significant structure built during British rule.

Unique Feature:

• Important for tourism, as it flows through the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a hotspot for biodiversity.

3. Narmada River

• Origin:
  The Narmada originates from the Amarkantak Plateau in Madhya Pradesh..
• Flows through Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
• Empties into the Arabian Sea near Bharuch, Gujarat.
• Tributaries: Major ones include the Tawa, Hiran, and Banjar.
• The Sardar Sarovar Dam, one of the largest dam projects in India, is located on the Narmada.

Unique Feature:

• Like the Tapi, it is one of the few rivers in India flowing westward.
• Considered sacred in Hindu mythology, with the Narmada Parikrama pilgrimage route along its banks.

4. Godavari River

• Origin:
  The Godavari originates from Trimbak in the Nashik district of Maharashtra.
  Flows through Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
• Empties into the Bay of Bengal near Antarvedi, Andhra Pradesh.
• Tributaries: Major ones include Manjira, Pravara, Purna, Indravati, and Sabari.

Significance:

• Often referred to as the "Dakshina Ganga" (Ganga of the South).
• Vital for irrigation, drinking water, and hydropower in southern India.
• Hosts the Polavaram Dam project.