Jharkhand, a state in eastern India, is known for its rich natural resources, diverse ecosystems, and extensive river systems. The rivers in Jharkhand not only support agriculture and livelihood but also hold significant cultural and historical value. The major rivers of Jharkhand originate from the Chotanagpur Plateau and meander through forests, valleys, and plains, contributing to the states water resources and biodiversity. Below is a detailed exploration of the major rivers of Jharkhand.
1. Damodar River
Origin:
The Damodar River originates from the Khamarpet hills near Tori in Palamu district.
Course:
It flows through the central part of Jharkhand and enters West Bengal before joining the Hooghly River.
The total length of the river is about 592 km, with approximately 250 km flowing through Jharkhand.
Tributaries:
Barakar River
Bokaro River
Konar River
Haharo River
Importance:
Known as the Sorrow of Bengal due to its devastating floods in the past.
The Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) has constructed several dams and reservoirs like Tilaiya, Konar, and Panchet, which help in flood control, irrigation, and power generation.
It supports industries in the coal belt region of Jharkhand.
Challenges:
Pollution due to industrial effluents and mining activities.
Depletion of water quality affecting aquatic life.
2. Subarnarekha River
Origin:
The Subarnarekha River originates from the Ranchi plateau near Piska in Ranchi district.
Course:
The river flows through Ranchi, Seraikela-Kharsawan, and East Singhbhum districts of Jharkhand before entering West Bengal and Odisha.
The total length of the river is 474 km, with about 269 km flowing in Jharkhand.
Tributaries:
Kharkai River
Kanchi River
Sankh River
Importance:
Known for its gold deposits historically; the name Subarnarekha translates to streak of gold.
Supports agriculture, fishing, and water supply for nearby towns.
Houses Subarnarekha Multipurpose Project, providing irrigation and hydroelectric power.
Challenges:
Industrial pollution, especially from mining and steel industries.
Sand mining leading to erosion and loss of aquatic habitats.
3. Koel River
Origin:
The North Koel River originates from the Palamu district in Jharkhand, while the South Koel originates near Nagri village in Ranchi district.
Course:
Both rivers join to form the Koel River, which eventually merges with the Son River, a tributary of the Ganges.
Tributaries:
Auranga River
Amanat River
Importance:
Supports the Betla National Park and Palamu Tiger Reserve ecosystems.
Provides irrigation for agricultural activities in the region.
Challenges:
Deforestation and soil erosion affecting river flow.
Reduced water quality due to human activities.
4. Barakar River
Origin:
The Barakar River originates from the Hazaribagh plateau in Jharkhand.
Course:
It flows through the northern parts of Jharkhand and acts as a major tributary of the Damodar River.
Importance:
The Maithon Dam, constructed on the Barakar River, is a critical component of the Damodar Valley Project.
Provides water for irrigation, domestic use, and industrial purposes.
Challenges:
Pollution from coal mining activities.
Overextraction of water leading to reduced flow.
5. Kharkai River
Origin:
The Kharkai River originates from the Simlipal hills in Odisha and flows into Jharkhand.
Course:
It flows through the East Singhbhum district and merges with the Subarnarekha River near Jamshedpur.
Importance:
Acts as a lifeline for Jamshedpurs industries, including Tata Steel.
Provides water for irrigation and drinking purposes.
Challenges:
Industrial pollution, especially from steel plants and urban waste.
Seasonal variations leading to water scarcity during dry months.
6. Mayurakshi River
Origin:
The Mayurakshi River originates from the Trikut Hills near Deoghar in Jharkhand.
Course:
It flows through Jharkhand and West Bengal before merging into the Hooghly River.
Importance:
Known for the Massanjore Dam, which supports irrigation and hydropower generation.
Provides water for agriculture and drinking in its catchment areas.
Challenges:
Soil erosion and sedimentation.
Pollution due to anthropogenic activities.
7. Ajay River
Origin:
The Ajay River originates from the Deoghar district in Jharkhand.
Course:
It flows through Jharkhand and West Bengal, eventually joining the Bhagirathi River.
Importance:
Supports agricultural activities in the region.
Historical and cultural significance as it has been mentioned in ancient scriptures.
Challenges:
Sand mining and deforestation impacting the river ecosystem.
Seasonal water scarcity.
8. Sankh River
Origin:
The Sankh River originates from the Netarhat plateau in Jharkhand.
Course:
It flows through the Gumla district and joins the South Koel River in Odisha.
Importance:
Supports tribal communities in its basin with water for daily needs and agriculture.
Rich biodiversity along its course.
Challenges:
Threatened by deforestation and habitat destruction.
Reduced flow due to climate variability.
- JPSC Mains Tests and Notes Program
- JPSC Prelims Exam 2024- Test Series and Notes Program
- JPSC Prelims and Mains Tests Series and Notes Program
- JPSC Detailed Complete Prelims Notes