Geography: Drainage System of India

The Indian drainage system consists of a large number of small and big rivers. It is broadly divided into two major groups based on their origin.

Himalayan Rivers (Perennial)

• The Indus System: Originates near Mansarovar Lake (Tibet). Main tributaries: Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Satluj.
• The Ganga System: Formed by the confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi at Devprayag.
• The Brahmaputra System: Known as Tsangpo in Tibet and Dihang in Arunachal Pradesh.

Peninsular Rivers (Seasonal)

• East Flowing (Bay of Bengal): Mahanadi, Godavari (Dakshin Ganga), Krishna, and Kaveri. These rivers form Deltas.
• West Flowing (Arabian Sea): Narmada and Tapi. These rivers flow through rift valleys and form Estuaries.

Important Facts

• Longest River: The Ganga is the longest river in India (2,525 km).
• Largest Peninsular River: The Godavari is the largest in the south.
• Majuli Island: The world’s largest riverine island, formed by the Brahmaputra in Assam.

Question for you: Which river is known as the “Sorrow of Bihar” due to its frequent course changes and flooding?

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