Krishna River - Learn Its Origin, Tributaries, and Major Projects!

Krishna River is a major river in South India, flowing through the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. It originates from the Western Ghats near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra and flows for about 1,400 kilometers before emptying into the Bay of Bengal in Andhra Pradesh. 

Krishna River is one of the most important topics for the UPSC IAS exam. It covers a significant part of the geography subject in the Mains General Studies Paper-1 syllabus and General Studies Paper-1 of the UPSC Prelims Syllabus.

In this article, we shall study the origin, tributaries, Projects, and importance of the Krishna River origin UPSC. 

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About Krishna River

The Krishna river originates from the Mahabaleshwar range of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra, India. The river embarks on a remarkable 1,400-kilometer journey. It traverses through the Indian states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. It ultimately merges into the Bay of Bengal at the town of Krishnapatnam. 

Study the Article India River Map here!

Overview of the Krishna River System

Here are some quick facts about Krishna River:

Course of River Krishna

The Krishna River embarks on a remarkable 1,400-kilometer journey. It travels through four Indian states: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. 

It originates from the Mahabaleshwar range of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. It flows westward for approximately 450 kilometers, forming a natural boundary between Maharashtra and Karnataka. Entering Karnataka, the Krishna River takes a sharp southward turn. It traverses the state for about 480 kilometers. As the Krishna River enters Telangana, it assumes an eastward direction. It flows for about 360 kilometers. Finally, the Krishna River enters Andhra Pradesh. Here, it forms a fertile delta spanning approximately 16,000 square kilometers. After traversing the delta, the Krishna River ultimately merges into the Bay of Bengal at the town of Krishnapatnam.

Features of Krishna River

The Krishna River is characterized by a range of distinctive features:

• Emerging from the Mahabaleshwar range of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra, the Krishna River embarks on a 1,400-kilometer journey. 
• The river traverses through four Indian states: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. 
• The Krishna River boasts a vast network of tributaries. This includes the Tungabhadra, Bhima, Ghataprabha, Malaprabha, and Musi. These tributaries drain an extensive catchment area of about 580,000 square kilometers.
• The Krishna River's flow is characterized by marked seasonal variations. It has peak flows during the monsoon season and reduced flows in the summer months. Its average annual discharge is estimated at around 2,100 cubic meters per second.
• The Krishna River is a lifeline for agriculture in the regions it traverses. Its waters nourish a variety of crops, including rice, sugarcane, cotton, and vegetables, supporting the livelihoods of millions of farmers.
• The Krishna River holds deep cultural and religious significance for the people of India. It is revered as a sacred river, mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures. 
• The Krishna River's substantial water flow and elevation differences make it a valuable source of hydroelectric power. Several dams and hydropower stations have been constructed along its course.
• The Krishna River supports a diverse ecosystem of aquatic and terrestrial species. Its floodplain provides critical habitat for various plants and wildlife, contributing to the region's biodiversity.

Study the Article on the Saraswati River here.

Tributaries of the Krishna River

The Krishna River has many major and minor rivers that join it, adding water and helping people grow crops and make a living in the nearby places. Some of the major tributaries of Krishna River are:

Panchganga River

• The Panchganga River is a big river that joins the Krishna River and starts near a town called Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra.
•  It is formed when five rivers come together - Krishna, Venna, Savitri, Gayatri, and Koyna. 
• The Panchganga River flows for about 105 kilometers before it meets the Krishna River close to the town of Karad. This river is really helpful for farming because it provides water for crops, and it's also used to make electricity.

Koyna River

•  The Koyna River is a big river that flows into the Krishna River.
•  It starts in a place called Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra.
• The river comes from the Western Ghats, which are mountains in India.
• It flows for approximately 130 kilometers before joining the Krishna River near the town of Karad.
• The Koyna River is famous for its beautiful sights and views.
• The Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is located there and has many different kinds of plants and animals.
• Some of the animals that live there are tigers, leopards, and sloth bears.
• The Koyna Dam, located on the river, is one of the largest hydroelectric power stations in India.

Bhima River

• Bhima River is a major tributary of the Krishna River, originating in the Western Ghats near the town of Bhimashankar in Maharashtra.
• It flows for approximately 725 kilometers before joining the Krishna River near the town of Raichur in Karnataka.
• The Bhima River is an important source of irrigation for agriculture in the region and is also used for hydropower generation.

Tungabhadra River

• Tungabhadra River is a major tributary of the Krishna River, originating in the Western Ghats near the town of Kudligi in Karnataka.
• It flows for approximately 531 kilometers before joining the Krishna River near the town of Alampur in Telangana.
• The Tungabhadra River is known for its historical and cultural significance, with several ancient temples and monuments located along its course.

Ghataprabha River

• Ghataprabha River is a tributary of the Krishna River, originating in the Western Ghats near the town of Gokak in Karnataka.
• It flows for approximately 283 kilometers before joining the Krishna River near the town of Almatti in Karnataka.
• The Ghataprabha River is known for its scenic beauty and is home to several waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries.

Dudhganga

• The Dudhganga River is a part of the Krishna River System that flows through the state of Maharashtra in western India.
• It originates in the Sahyadri Range and flows for approximately 50 kilometers before merging with the Krishna River near Karad.
• The river passes through the districts of Satara and Sangli and serves as a major source of irrigation for agriculture in the region.
• The river is also important for hydropower generation, with several small hydroelectric power stations located along its course.
• The Dudhganga Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Sahyadri Range, is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and wild boars.

Malaprabha River

• Malaprabha River is a tributary of the Krishna River, originating in the Western Ghats near the town of Khanapur in Karnataka.
• The Malaprabha River is about 304 kilometers long, and it joins the Krishna River near a town called Kudalasangama in Karnataka.
• It helps farmers by providing water for their crops and is used to generate electricity.
• The river is famous for its historical and cultural importance and has many old temples and monuments along its path.
• The Malaprabha Dam, located on the river, is one of the largest reservoirs in the state of Karnataka.

Musi River

• Musi River is a tributary of the Krishna River, originating in the Deccan Plateau near the town of Anantagiri in Telangana.
• It flows for approximately 240 kilometers before joining the Krishna River near the town of Vadapally in Telangana.
• The Musi River is an important source of water for irrigation, industrial, and domestic use in the region.
• The river is famous for its history and has important landmarks and monuments nearby.
• Sadly, the river has become dirty and damaged because of factories and cities being built near it.
• People worry that the river might not stay healthy and safe for a long time.

Also, check out the article on Drainage Systems with this link!

Flora and Fauna Around Krishna River

Krishna River and its surrounding areas are home to a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, including several endemic and endangered species. Here are some of the notable flora and fauna species found around Krishna River:

Flora	Fauna
Teak, rosewood, sandalwood, and other tropical hardwoods Eucalyptus, acacia, and other exotic species Various species of aquatic plants and mangroves	Mugger crocodiles, Indian gharials, and other reptiles Bengal tigers, leopards, and other big cats Indian elephants, sloth bears, and other mammals Several species of fish and aquatic animals, including the critically endangered Gangetic dolphin

Read the Article on Feni River here.

About Krishna Basin in Hindi

The Krishna River Basin is one of India's largest and most important river basins. It encompasses an area of approximately 258,948 square kilometers. The basin spans four Indian states – Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. It serves as a lifeline for millions of people, providing water for agriculture, drinking, and industry.

The Krishna River Basin extends from the Western Ghats Mountains in the west to the Bay of Bengal in the east. It is characterized by diverse landscapes, ranging from the rugged Western Ghats to the fertile plains of the Deccan Plateau. 

Also, check out the article on West Flowing Rivers of India for UPSC preparation!

Major Projects on River Krishna

Nagarjuna Sagar Dam: The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is one of the largest masonry dams in the world, built on the River Krishna in the state of Telangana. It was completed in 1972 and provides irrigation water to over 10 lakh hectares of land, as well as generating hydroelectric power.

Srisailam Dam: The Srisailam Dam is another major dam on the River Krishna, located on the border between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Completed in 1980, it is one of the largest hydroelectric power stations in India and also provides water for irrigation.

Prakasam Barrage: The Prakasam Barrage is a major irrigation project on the River Krishna in the city of Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. Built in 1957, it diverts the water to the Krishna delta for agriculture and also serves as a bridge connecting the city of Vijayawada with the town of Guntur.

Pulichintala Project: The Pulichintala Project is a multipurpose irrigation project on the River Krishna in Andhra Pradesh. It was completed in 2019 and provides water for irrigation, drinking water supply, and industrial use.

Handri-Neeva Sujala Sravanthi Project: The Handri-Neeva Sujala Sravanthi Project is a major irrigation project in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. It involves the construction of several dams and canals on the tributaries of the River Krishna, including the Handri, Neeva, and Chitravathi rivers, to provide water for agriculture.

Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal: The Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal was established in 1969 to resolve disputes over the sharing of the River Krishna's water between the states of Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. The tribunal's award was given in 2013 and is binding on all three states.

Also, check out the article on East Flowing Rivers of India for UPSC preparation!

Significance of River Krishna

The Krishna River holds great significance in India due to its historical, cultural, and economic importance. Here are some key points highlighting its significance:

• The Krishna River is one of the longest rivers in India. It flows through the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
• The river basin covers a large area, supporting agriculture, industries, and settlements along its course.
• The Krishna River is a lifeline for agriculture in the regions it passes through. It provides water for irrigation, enabling the cultivation of crops such as rice, sugarcane, cotton, and fruits.
• The Krishna River has significant hydroelectric power potential. Several dams along the river, including the Srisailam, Nagjhari, and Almatti Dams, generate electricity.
• The Krishna River holds immense cultural and religious importance, particularly in Hinduism. It is associated with various legends from Hindu mythology, including the childhood escapades of Lord Krishna.
• The river is considered sacred, and several temples and pilgrimage sites are located along its banks.
• The Krishna River serves as a major source of drinking water supply for cities and towns along its banks.
• The Krishna River supports diverse ecosystems and habitats, providing a home to various species of flora and fauna.

Also, check out the article on the Godavari River System for UPSC preparation!

Conclusion

The Krishna River System is one of the most important river systems in India, playing a significant role in the economy and agriculture of the regions it flows through. While the river faces challenges such as pollution and overexploitation, efforts are being made to manage its resources sustainably and preserve its ecological and cultural significance.

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