Narmada River System: Map | Tributaries & Dams

The Narmada River, known as the lifeline of Central India, holds great historical, cultural, and ecological significance. Flowing through the states of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, this sacred river has nurtured civilizations for centuries and continues to provide numerous benefits to the region.

Understanding the importance of the Narmada River is essential for UPSC exam aspirants, as it encompasses various aspects of geography, history, and environmental studies. This article will explore the Narmada River, covering its origin, course, tributaries, dams, religious significance, and ecological importance.

Narmada River

The Narmada River, popularly referred to as the Reva, holds the distinction of being India’s fifth-longest river and the longest west-flowing river in the country. It is also recognized as the largest flowing river within the state it traverses. Moreover, the Narmada River flows through a rift valley, carving its way between the Satpura and Vindhya mountain ranges, making it one of the significant rivers in India that follows this geological formation.

Origin & Course

• The Narmada River originates in the Amarkantak Plateau of the Maikala range in the Anuppur District of eastern Madhya Pradesh.
• It begins at an elevation of 1,057 meters above mean sea level.
• The river traverses a distance of 1,312 km before it merges into the Gulf of Cambay in the Arabian Sea near Bharuch, Gujarat.
• The first 1,079 km of the Narmada River is in Madhya Pradesh.
• It then forms the boundary between Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra for 35 km.
• Next, it forms the boundary between Maharashtra and Gujarat for a length of 39 km.
• The last stretch of 159 km of the Narmada River lies in Gujarat.

River Basin

• The Narmada River basin encompasses an area of 98,796 sq. km.
• It is bounded on the north by the Vindhyas, on the east by the Maikala range, on the south by the Satpuras, and on the west by the Arabian Sea.
• Most of the Narmada River basin is less than 500 meters above mean sea level.
• Only a small area around Panchmarhi is at an elevation of more than 1,000 meters above mean sea level.

Drainage Area

The Narmada River basin is spread across three states:

• Madhya Pradesh: 85,859 sq. km.
• Maharashtra: 1,538 sq. km.
• Gujarat: 11,399 sq. km.

Waterfalls on the Narmada River

The Narmada River, located in central India, is known for its scenic beauty and is home to several waterfalls. Here are some of the prominent waterfalls along the Narmada River:

Waterfall Name	Location
Dhuan Dhar Falls	Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh
Mandhar Waterfall	Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh
Dardi Waterfall	Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh
Sahastradhara Falls	Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh
Bhedaghat Falls	Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh
Kapil Dhara Falls	Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh

Map of Narmada River

Tributaries of Narmada River

Following are the left and right bank tributaries of the Narmada River:

Dams on the Narmada River

Here are some of the prominent dams constructed on the Narmada River:

Dam	Location	Purpose	Height (m)
Sardar Sarovar Dam	Navagam, Gujarat	Irrigation, Water Supply, Hydroelectric Power	163
Indira Sagar Dam	Narmada Nagar, MP	Irrigation, Hydroelectric Power	92
Omkareshwar Dam	Omkareshwar, MP	Hydroelectric Power, Irrigation	65
Bargi Dam	Jabalpur, MP	Irrigation, Hydroelectric Power	69
Jobat Dam	Jobat, MP	Irrigation	35
Maheshwar Dam	Maheshwar, MP	Hydroelectric Power, Irrigation	47

Religious & Cultural Significance

• Holy River: The Narmada River holds immense religious significance in Hindu mythology and is considered one of the seven sacred rivers in India.
• Pilgrimage: The Narmada River is associated with numerous pilgrimage sites, including the Amarkantak, Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, and the Narmada Sagar dams, which attract devotees and tourists.
• Ritual Bathing: Taking a dip in the Narmada River is believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul according to Hindu beliefs.
• Festivals: The Narmada Jayanti (birth anniversary of the river) and Narmada Parikrama (circumambulation of the river) is celebrated with great enthusiasm by devotees.

Read: Major Rivers of India

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Narmada River is a significant river in central India, known for its religious, cultural, ecological, and historical importance. Considered one of the sacred rivers in Hindu mythology, it holds a special place in the hearts of devotees who believe in its purifying powers. The river is associated with pilgrimage sites and festivals that attract devotees and tourists alike.

Beyond its religious and cultural significance, the Narmada River plays a crucial role in supporting diverse ecosystems and wildlife in its basin. Conservation efforts are aimed at preserving the river’s biodiversity and protecting endangered species.

Overall, the Narmada River stands as a symbol of spiritual devotion, ecological richness, and historical legacy, weaving together the fabric of India’s diverse tapestry.

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