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Understanding the Bhima River and Its Importance

A Deep Dive into the Bhima River and Current Developments

Understanding the Bhima River and Its Importance

  • 23 Dec, 2025
  • 267

Bhima River: Overview

The Bhima River has been a focal point of recent discussions, particularly as the Karnataka government has appealed to the central government regarding Maharashtra's excessive use of its water. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges concerning water resources management in India.

About Bhima River

The Bhima River is a perennial river and stands as the largest tributary of the Krishna River. It originates near the Bhimashankar Temple located in the Bhimashankar hills within the Western Ghats. The river flows through three states: Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana, ultimately merging with the Krishna River in Karnataka’s Raichur district.

Geographical Features

The drainage area of the Bhima River is bordered by the Western Ghats to the west, the Balaghat Range to the north, and the Mahadeo Hills to the south. The total basin area spans approximately 48,631 square kilometers, with about 75 percent of this area situated in Maharashtra. The river traverses a well-entrenched valley, and its banks are densely populated.

Major Tributaries of the Bhima River

The river has several significant tributaries:

  • Right Bank: Indrayani River, Mula River, Mutha River, and Pavana River.
  • Left Bank: Sina and Nira.

Spiritual Significance

One of the key spiritual centers associated with the Bhima River is Pandharpur, which is located on its right bank. This pilgrimage site draws devotees from across the region and contributes to the cultural importance of the river.

Current Issues

As water scarcity becomes a growing concern, the conflict over the Bhima River's usage between Karnataka and Maharashtra is increasingly relevant. The Karnataka government's request for intervention from the central government underscores the necessity for effective water resource management to ensure equitable distribution and sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the origin of the Bhima River?
Answer: The Bhima River originates near the Bhimashankar Temple in the Bhimashankar hills of the Western Ghats, Maharashtra.

Q2. Which states does the Bhima River flow through?
Answer: The Bhima River flows through Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana, eventually merging with the Krishna River.

Q3. What are the major tributaries of the Bhima River?
Answer: Major tributaries include the Indrayani, Mula, Mutha, Pavana, Sina, and Nira rivers, which enrich its flow.

Q4. Why is the Bhima River significant for pilgrims?
Answer: The Bhima River is significant due to Pandharpur, an important pilgrimage site located on its banks, attracting many devotees.

Q5. What current issue is the Bhima River facing?
Answer: The Bhima River is facing conflict over water usage between Karnataka and Maharashtra, prompting calls for central government intervention.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: Where does the Bhima River originate?
A) Near Pune
B) Near Bhimashankar Temple
C) Near Raichur
D) Near Mumbai
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which river does the Bhima River merge with?
A) Godavari
B) Krishna
C) Narmada
D) Ganges
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What is the major pilgrimage site along the Bhima River?
A) Varanasi
B) Pandharpur
C) Haridwar
D) Rishikesh
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which state has the majority of the Bhima River basin area?
A) Telangana
B) Maharashtra
C) Karnataka
D) Gujarat
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What are the right bank tributaries of the Bhima River?
A) Sindhu and Nira
B) Mula and Mutha
C) Godavari and Krishna
D) Ganges and Yamuna
Correct Answer: B

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