Jharkhand, the land of forests, is geographically diverse and rich in natural beauty. The state is characterized by a rugged terrain, plateaus, hills, and river valleys that contribute to its unique physiographic divisions. These physiographic divisions play a critical role in shaping the state's climate, biodiversity, and socio-economic activities.
1. Introduction to Jharkhands Physiography
Jharkhand's physiography is a mix of ancient plateaus, forested hills, and river valleys. Situated in eastern India, it spans an area of 79,716 km. The region is dominated by the Chotanagpur Plateau, which is a part of the Deccan Plateau system. The diverse terrain supports rich mineral resources, dense forests, and agricultural activities.
Key Features:
Location: Between 2158 and 2518 N latitude, and 8322 and 8757 E longitude.
Elevation: Ranges from 200 meters to over 1,100 meters above sea level.
Dominant Landform: Plateau region interspersed with hills and valleys.
2. Physiographic Divisions of Jharkhand
Jharkhand can be broadly divided into three physiographic units:
Chotanagpur Plateau
Damodar Valley
Rajmahal Hills
Each division has distinct geological, geomorphological, and ecological characteristics.
3. Chotanagpur Plateau
The Chotanagpur Plateau is the largest physiographic division of Jharkhand and forms the backbone of the state's topography.
Subdivisions:
Ranchi Plateau: The central plateau, characterized by flat-topped hills.
Hazaribagh Plateau: Located to the north of the Ranchi Plateau, known for coal mining areas.
Kodarma-Giridih Plateau: Rich in mica and minerals.
Palamu Plateau: Situated in the western part, with dense forests and wildlife habitats.
Key Features:
Geological Composition: Made of granite, gneiss, and schist rocks of Precambrian origin.
Highest Point: Parasnath Hill (1,366 meters), located in the Parasnath Range.
Resources: Coal, mica, bauxite, and iron ore.
Importance:
Rich in mineral resources, making Jharkhand the "Mineral Hub of India."
Dense forests contribute to biodiversity and forestry-based livelihoods.
Fertile valleys support agriculture.
4. Damodar Valley
The Damodar Valley is a vital river valley system in Jharkhand, shaping the state's hydrogeography and industrial landscape.
Key Features:
Location: Extends across the central part of the state.
Rivers: Dominated by the Damodar River and its tributaries, including Barakar, Bokaro, and Konar.
Topography: Characterized by undulating plains and dissected plateaus.
Resources:
Known as the "Ruhr of India" due to extensive coal deposits.
Major coalfields: Jharia, Bokaro, and North Karanpura.
Importance:
The valley hosts some of India's largest coal-based industries and thermal power plants.
Fertile alluvial soil supports agriculture in surrounding areas.
5. Rajmahal Hills
The Rajmahal Hills, located in the northeastern part of Jharkhand, are a distinct physiographic unit known for their volcanic origin.
Key Features:
Geological Composition: Formed from basaltic lava flows during the Jurassic period.
Elevation: Ranges from 200 to 500 meters.
Vegetation: Dominated by tropical deciduous forests.
Significance:
Home to unique plant fossils dating back to the Gondwana period.
Rich biodiversity with species adapted to hilly terrain.
Supports traditional agriculture and tribal settlements.
6. Rivers and Drainage Systems
Jharkhand is drained by several rivers that originate from the plateau regions and flow through valleys.
Major Rivers:
Subarnarekha River: Flows eastward, contributing to agriculture and irrigation.
Damodar River: Crucial for industrial and domestic water needs.
Koel River: A tributary of the Son River, significant for hydroelectric projects.
Importance of Rivers:
Rivers act as lifelines for agriculture and domestic use.
Their valleys provide fertile soil for crops.
7. Climate and Vegetation
Jharkhand's physiographic divisions significantly influence its climate and vegetation.
Climate:
Tropical Climate: Hot summers, moderate monsoons, and cool winters.
Rainfall: Annual rainfall varies between 1,200 mm and 1,500 mm, concentrated during the monsoon season.
Vegetation:
Dominated by tropical deciduous forests.
Common trees include sal, teak, bamboo, and mahua.
8. Biodiversity Hotspots
Jharkhand's diverse terrain supports a rich array of flora and fauna.
Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks:
Betla National Park: Known for tigers and elephants.
Palamu Tiger Reserve: A critical habitat for Bengal tigers.
Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary: Rich in herbivorous species and birdlife.
Significance:
Provides ecological balance and supports traditional livelihoods like hunting and gathering.
9. Economic Significance
Jharkhand's physiographic divisions have a profound impact on its economy.
Mining and Industry:
Chotanagpur Plateau is rich in coal, iron ore, and other minerals, driving the mining and steel industries.
Damodar Valley hosts several industrial hubs.
Agriculture:
Fertile valleys in the plateau and river basins support rice, wheat, and pulses cultivation.
Tourism:
Scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife attract tourists, contributing to the state's economy.