The Maikala Range is a prominent hill range situated in central India, specifically near Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh. This range is renowned for being the source of the Narmada River, one of the major rivers in India. It plays a vital role as a watershed area and is distinguished by its rich biodiversity, as well as its significant cultural and religious importance.
The Narmada River originates from the Maikala Range near Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh. The river begins its journey from a small tank known as Narmadakund at Amarkantak, marking the start of its westward flow across the central Indian landscape.
The Narmada River holds immense geographical, cultural, and religious importance in India. As the largest west-flowing river of the peninsular region, it is one of the five holy rivers in Hindu mythology. Geographically, it flows through a rift valley between the Vindhya and Satpura ranges, creating unique landscapes such as the marble rocks at Bhedaghat near Jabalpur and the renowned DhuanDhar Falls. This river supports a diverse ecosystem and fulfills the agricultural and water needs of millions across its basin.
The Narmada River flows westward through a rift valley formed between the Vindhya Range to the north and the Satpura Range to the south. It travels over 1,300 kilometers from its source in Madhya Pradesh, passing through Maharashtra before ultimately reaching the Arabian Sea in Gujarat.
The DhuanDhar Falls, located near Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh, are one of the most notable landmarks along the Narmada River. The name 'DhuanDhar' translates to 'Smoke Cascade', which refers to the misty spray generated by the water as it plunges over steep rocks, creating a visual that resembles smoke. The falls are a popular tourist attraction, celebrated for their scenic beauty and the marble rocks that flank the river at Bhedaghat.
The Narmada River primarily drains a large area in Madhya Pradesh, which includes its source and significant stretches of the river. It also flows through parts of Maharashtra and Gujarat before emptying into the Arabian Sea. The river basin is crucial for the agricultural, industrial, and domestic water needs of these regions.
Q1. What is the significance of the Maikala Range?
Answer: The Maikala Range is significant as it is the source of the Narmada River and serves as a vital watershed area, contributing to biodiversity and cultural heritage in central India.
Q2. How long is the Narmada River?
Answer: The Narmada River flows over 1,300 kilometers, making it one of the longest rivers in India, traversing Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
Q3. What unique landscapes does the Narmada River create?
Answer: The Narmada River creates unique landscapes, including the marble rocks at Bhedaghat and the scenic DhuanDhar Falls, known for their misty appearance.
Q4. Why are the DhuanDhar Falls popular?
Answer: The DhuanDhar Falls are popular for their breathtaking beauty and the mist generated by the water cascading over steep rocks, attracting numerous tourists.
Q5. What are the main states drained by the Narmada River?
Answer: The Narmada River primarily drains Madhya Pradesh, along with parts of Maharashtra and Gujarat before flowing into the Arabian Sea.
Question 1: Where does the Narmada River originate?
A) Vindhya Range
B) Maikala Range
C) Satpura Range
D) Western Ghats
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What is the length of the Narmada River?
A) 800 km
B) 1,000 km
C) 1,300 km
D) 1,500 km
Correct Answer: C
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