Question

Which are Himalayan and Peninsular rivers? Differentiate between their characteristics.

Answer 1

1. Himalayan rivers: These rivers originate in the Himalayas mountain and they are called perennial rivers as they have water throughout the year. For example, Indus, Ganga, Brahmaputra etc.
2. Peninsular rivers: Those rivers which are in the peninsular plateau or in south India are called Peninsular rivers. For example, Narmada, Tapi, Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri etc.

Difference:

Himalayan Rivers	Rivers of the Peninsula
1. These rivers rise from the snow covered Himalayas and hence these are perennial.	1. The Peninsular rivers are seasonal. They get supply of water from summer rainfall.
2. These rivers do not have any waterfalls. Hence these are not useful for generation of water power.	2. These rivers make waterfalls and cataracts on the plateau. Hence these are useful for hydroelectric projects.
3. The Himalayan rivers have large basins and extensive catchment areas. Therefore, these have a large volume of water.	3. The peninsular rivers have small basins and small catchment areas. Therefore these do not have a large volume of water.
4. These rivers flow over plains. Therefore these are useful for irrigation and navigation.	4. These rivers flow on rocky areas and are not used for irrigation and navigation.
5. These rivers pass through deep gorges and before entering the plains they have meandering courses on plains.	5. These rivers flow through shallow river valley having straight courses.
6. These river form vast alluvial plains by depositing sediments.	6. These rivers do not bring fertile alluvium and do not form alluvial plains.
7. Many important towns have developed on the courses of these rivers.	7. Very few towns have developed on the banks of these rivers.