The Difference Between Himalayan and Peninsular River
When it comes to rivers in India, there are two main categories: Himalayan and peninsular. These two types of rivers differ in terms of their origins, geography, and other factors. In this article, we will explore the key differences between the two types of rivers.
Origins and Geography
One of the main differences between Himalayan and peninsular rivers is their origins. Himalayan rivers originate from the Himalayan mountain range, which spans across northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of Tibet. These rivers flow through narrow valleys and gorges and are characterized by their fast flow, rocky beds, and steep gradients.
On the other hand, peninsular rivers are those that flow through the Peninsular Plateau of India, which covers the southern part of the country. These rivers originate from the plateau and flow across large plains, rolling hills, and plateaus. They usually have a gentle slope, shallow beds, and fluctuating flow depending on the season.
Water Flow
Another key difference between Himalayan and peninsular rivers is their water flow. Himalayan rivers are fed by snowmelt and rainwater, which makes them perennial, meaning they flow throughout the year. They are also characterized by their high volume and velocity, making them ideal for hydropower generation and irrigation.
Peninsular rivers, on the other hand, are mostly rain-fed and are usually seasonal, meaning their flow depends on the monsoon season. These rivers experience floods during the rainy season but may dry up during the dry season, which can impact agricultural activities in the region.
Flora and Fauna
The vegetation and wildlife found in Himalayan and peninsular rivers also differ significantly. Himalayan rivers are home to cold-water fish species, such as trout and salmon, that thrive in fast-moving water with high levels of dissolved oxygen. The surrounding vegetation is composed of evergreen forests, alpine grasslands, and shrubs.
In contrast, peninsular rivers support a diverse range of aquatic wildlife species, including several types of freshwater fish, turtles, and crocodiles. The vegetation found along the riverbanks is typically tropical in nature, with dense forests and grasslands.
Conclusion
In summary, the two main types of rivers in India, Himalayan and peninsular, differ in several aspects. While Himalayan rivers have fast flow and steep gradients, peninsular rivers are characterized by their gentle slope and seasonal flow. Himalayan rivers also have cold-water fish species, while peninsular rivers are home to a diverse range of aquatic wildlife. Understanding these differences is essential in enabling appropriate use of these rivers for resource management and conservation efforts.
Table difference between himalayan and peninsular river
| Criteria | Himalayan River | Peninsular River |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Flow through the Himalayan mountain range | Flow through the Deccan Plateau and Eastern Ghats hills |
| Origin | Originate from glaciers and snowfields | Originate from rain-fed streams and lakes |
| Length | Longer in length | Shorter in length |
| Flow | Fast and highly turbulent in nature | Slow and even, flowing through flat terrain |
| Water Availability | Abundant water throughout the year due to snowmelt and rainfall | Water availability is limited due to seasonal rainfall |
| Tributaries | Have numerous tributaries which also originate in the Himalayas | Tributaries are small and less in number |
| Uses | Used for hydropower generation, irrigation, fishing, and transportation | Used for irrigation, drinking water, and some small-scale hydropower generation |