The Mahanadi River is one of the major rivers in India, flowing through the states of Chhattisgarh and Odisha. It originates from the Sihawa mountain range in the state of Chhattisgarh and flows for approximately 858 kilometers (533 miles) before draining into the Bay of Bengal.
The Mahanadi River has a significant role in the agricultural and industrial development of the region it passes through. It serves as a lifeline for millions of people, providing water for irrigation, drinking, and industrial purposes. The river basin is known for its fertile soil, supporting extensive agricultural activities such as rice cultivation, as well as other crops like wheat, sugarcane, and pulses.
Several dams and reservoirs have been constructed along the Mahanadi River for water storage, irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control. The Hirakud Dam, located in Odisha, is one of the largest dams in India and forms one of the largest artificial lakes in Asia, called the Hirakud Reservoir. The reservoir helps regulate the flow of the river and provides water for irrigation and drinking purposes.
The Mahanadi River is also significant in terms of its ecological importance. The river and its surrounding wetlands support diverse flora and fauna, including several endangered species. It is home to various species of fish, turtles, dolphins, and migratory birds, making it an important ecosystem in the region.
However, like many rivers in India, the Mahanadi River faces challenges related to water pollution, sedimentation, and overexploitation. The discharge of untreated industrial and domestic waste into the river, along with deforestation and agricultural runoff, have contributed to its pollution levels. Efforts are being made by the government and environmental organizations to address these issues and ensure the sustainable management of the river's resources.
Overall, the Mahanadi River plays a vital role in the socio-economic development and ecological balance of the region it traverses, and its conservation and proper management are of utmost importance for the well-being of the local communities and the environment.
It drains into the Bay of Bengal.
The Mahanadi River system is the third largest of peninsular India and the largest river of Odisha state.
Its basin extends over states of Chhattisgarh and Odisha and comparatively smaller portions of Jharkhand, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
It is bounded by the Central India hills, Eastern Ghats and by the Maikala range.
Origin: It rises from a place near Sihawa in Bastar hills in the state of Chhattisgarh.
It drains into the Bay of Bengal.
Tributaries :
Left bank: The Seonath, the Hasdeo, the Mand and the Ib.
Right bank Tributaries: The Ong, the Tel and the Jonk
Puri, at one of its mouths, is a famous pilgrimage site.
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