All questions of Physical Geography of Uttar Pradesh for UPPSC (UP) Exam

Eastern Uttar Pradesh is traditionally flood-prone due to several geographical and climatic factors. This region is located in the Gangetic plain, which is formed by the alluvial deposits of the Ganges and its tributaries. The combination of heavy rainfall, high discharge from the rivers, and the flat topography of the area makes it vulnerable to flooding. Here is a detailed explanation of why Eastern Uttar Pradesh is prone to floods:

1. Geographical Location:
- Eastern Uttar Pradesh is situated in the lower part of the Gangetic plain, which is a vast stretch of fertile land formed by the sedimentary deposits of the Ganges River.
- The region is crisscrossed by several major rivers, including the Ganges, Yamuna, Ghaghara, and Gandak, which contribute to the flooding during the monsoon season.
- The rivers in this region receive water from the Himalayan rivers and the runoff from the surrounding areas, leading to a significant volume of water flow.

2. Monsoonal Climate:
- Eastern Uttar Pradesh experiences a monsoonal climate characterized by heavy rainfall during the months of June to September.
- The region receives a substantial amount of rainfall during this period, which leads to an increase in the water level of the rivers.
- The excessive rainfall, combined with the already high water levels, often exceeds the carrying capacity of the rivers, resulting in floods.

3. Flat Topography:
- The topography of Eastern Uttar Pradesh is predominantly flat, with low-lying areas and floodplains.
- The lack of natural barriers or slopes in the landscape makes it easier for water to accumulate and spread over a larger area during floods.
- The flat terrain also hampers the drainage of excess water, causing it to stagnate and prolonging the duration of floods.

4. Human Interventions:
- Certain human activities have further increased the vulnerability of Eastern Uttar Pradesh to floods.
- Deforestation, encroachment of floodplains, and inadequate maintenance of river embankments have disrupted the natural flow of water and reduced the capacity of rivers to handle floodwaters.
- The construction of dams and barrages upstream can also contribute to the intensity and duration of floods downstream.

In conclusion, Eastern Uttar Pradesh is traditionally flood-prone due to its geographical location in the Gangetic plain, the monsoonal climate with heavy rainfall, the flat topography, and human interventions. These factors combined make the region susceptible to flooding, causing significant damage to lives, property, and agriculture.

The Betwa River flows through the Bundelkhand region and is considered the lifeline of this area. It rises in the Vindhya Range and flows through Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

Bangar Soil, covering the largest part of the Gangetic plains, is characterized by calcareous deposits known as Kankar. It is an old and matured alluvial soil, but its fertility has been lost due to continuous agricultural use, requiring additional fertilizers for cultivation.

Introduction to Ramsar Sites
Ramsar Sites are designated under the Ramsar Convention, which aims to protect wetlands of international importance. These sites play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, flood control, and water quality improvement.
Upper Ganga River (Brijghat to Narora Stretch)
The Upper Ganga River stretch between Brijghat and Narora in Uttar Pradesh is recognized as a Ramsar Site due to its ecological significance.
Key Features of the Upper Ganga River Ramsar Site:
- Ecological Diversity: This stretch supports a variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered species, making it vital for biodiversity.
- Significant Wetlands: The area encompasses wetlands that serve as critical habitats for migratory birds and aquatic life.
- Water Quality: The river plays a crucial role in maintaining the water quality of the Ganges, which is essential for the communities that depend on it.
- Cultural Importance: The Ganges is not only a natural resource but also holds immense cultural and spiritual significance for millions of people in India.
Conservation Efforts
The designation as a Ramsar Site strengthens conservation efforts in the region, promoting sustainable management practices to protect this vital ecosystem. It also highlights the need for community involvement in conservation initiatives to ensure the long-term health of the river.
Conclusion
Recognizing the Upper Ganga River stretch as a Ramsar Site underscores the importance of preserving vital wetland ecosystems in Uttar Pradesh, fostering both ecological health and cultural heritage.

Soil in the Terai region rich in nitrogen and organic matter:
- The soil in the Terai region is known for its richness in nitrogen and organic matter. This is due to the presence of fertile alluvial soil deposited by rivers flowing down from the Himalayas.
- The high organic matter content in the soil is a result of the decomposition of plant and animal materials over time, enriching the soil with essential nutrients.

Deficiency in phosphate:
- Despite being rich in nitrogen and organic matter, the soil in the Terai region is often deficient in phosphate. Phosphate is an essential nutrient for plant growth and development, playing a crucial role in processes such as photosynthesis, energy transfer, and root development.
- The deficiency of phosphate in the soil can limit plant growth and productivity, leading to decreased crop yields and overall agricultural productivity.

Silty Soil:
- Silty soil is the type of soil commonly found in the Terai region. It has a fine texture with particles that are smaller than sand but larger than clay, providing good drainage and water retention properties.
- Silty soil is known for its high fertility due to its rich organic matter content, making it ideal for agriculture. However, it is often deficient in phosphate, which can be addressed through the application of phosphate fertilizers to ensure optimal plant growth and productivity.
In conclusion, while the soil in the Terai region is rich in nitrogen and organic matter, it is crucial to address the deficiency of phosphate to support sustainable agriculture and maximize crop yields in the region.

The text mentions that the objectives of the State Forest Policy, 2017 include the conservation and improvement of biodiversity and wildlife.

The Shivalik ranges in Uttar Pradesh were formed during the Tertiary Period, as a result of deposition and upliftment of sedimentary and metamorphic rocks in the Tethys Sea.

Largest Tributary of the Ganges
The Ganges River, one of the most significant rivers in India, has several tributaries. Among these, the Ghaghara River stands out as the largest tributary in terms of volume.
Reasons Why Ghaghara is the Largest Tributary
- Volume of Water: The Ghaghara River contributes a significant volume of water to the Ganges. It has an extensive catchment area, which facilitates the collection of substantial rainfall and snowmelt from the Himalayas.
- Geographical Significance: Originating from the Tibet region, the Ghaghara flows through Nepal and enters India, where it merges with the Ganges near the town of Chapra in Bihar. Its long course allows it to gather water from various tributaries, enhancing its flow.
- Comparison with Other Tributaries: When compared to other tributaries like the Yamuna, Gomti, and Chambal, the Ghaghara's discharge is notably higher.
- The Yamuna, while significant, has a lower volume compared to the Ghaghara.
- The Gomti and Chambal, although important, do not match the water volume contributed by the Ghaghara.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ghaghara River is recognized as the largest tributary of the Ganges due to its high water volume and extensive drainage area. Understanding this distinction helps in appreciating the complex hydrology of the Ganges River system.

The geographical location of Uttar Pradesh is 25° N to 30° N latitudes and 80° E to 88° E longitudes. Let's break down the answer and explain it in detail:

Geographical Location of Uttar Pradesh:
- Latitude: 25° N to 30° N
- Longitude: 80° E to 88° E

Explanation:
Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India. To determine its geographical location, we need to look at its latitude and longitude coordinates.

Latitude:
Latitude is the angular distance of a location from the equator, measured in degrees north or south. The equator is defined as 0° latitude, and it divides the Earth into the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. Uttar Pradesh is situated in the Northern Hemisphere, so its latitude is measured in the north.

The latitude range of Uttar Pradesh is 25° N to 30° N. This means that the state is located between 25 degrees and 30 degrees north of the equator. The higher the latitude, the closer a location is to the North Pole. Therefore, Uttar Pradesh is relatively closer to the North Pole compared to locations with lower latitudes.

Longitude:
Longitude is the angular distance of a location from the prime meridian, which passes through Greenwich, England. It is measured in degrees east or west. The prime meridian is defined as 0° longitude, and it divides the Earth into the Eastern Hemisphere and the Western Hemisphere.

The longitude range of Uttar Pradesh is 80° E to 88° E. This means that the state is located between 80 degrees and 88 degrees east of the prime meridian. The higher the longitude, the further east a location is from the prime meridian. Therefore, Uttar Pradesh is relatively further east compared to locations with lower longitudes.

In conclusion, the geographical location of Uttar Pradesh is defined by the latitude range of 25° N to 30° N and the longitude range of 80° E to 88° E. These coordinates specify the approximate position of the state within the Earth's grid system and provide an understanding of its location in relation to other regions and countries.

The three forest types mentioned in the text are Tropical Moist Deciduous, Tropical Dry Deciduous, and Tropical Thorn. Subtropical Rainforest is not mentioned.

The text specifies that Bundelkhand & Vindhya region of Uttar Pradesh is traditionally drought-prone.

Rakar Soil is predominantly found in the slopy areas of hilly and plateau regions, particularly in the Western Ranges of Uttar Pradesh. Crops like sesame or til (Kharif) and grams (Rabi) are commonly grown in this soil.

The text states that the Western Plains, including districts like Agra and Meerut, receive an average annual rainfall varying from 65 cm to 80 cm, making it the region with the lowest rainfall in Uttar Pradesh.

The Terai Region in Uttar Pradesh is characterized by a level, damp, and marshy plain formed by fine silt, with a climate conducive to the growth of specific plant species.

The text mentions that the winter season in Uttar Pradesh is characterized by clear skies, low temperatures, and pleasant weather. The entire North-Western part of the country remains under a high-pressure belt during this season.

Maar/Maad Soil, found in the Western districts of Uttar Pradesh, is black in color and largely clayey. It contains approximately 60% silica, 15% iron, and 25% aluminum. This soil is highly retentive of moisture and can be challenging to work on during the rainy season.

The theme of the Forest Festival/Van Mahatsav is about the significance of trees, emphasizing tree planting.

According to the text, loo, a local wind, flows in the Central Plains region during the summer season. This wind contributes to the high temperatures experienced in this area.

The source of the Ganga River is considered to be the Bhagirathi, which rises at the foot of the Gangotri glacier. The Bhagirathi is one of the six headstreams that form the Ganga, and it is at the confluence of the Bhagirathi and the Alaknanda at Devprayag that the Ganges River proper begins.

The Uttar Pradesh Forestry Scheme was started on 19th March, 1998, with the assistance of the World Bank.

Dudhwa National Park is situated in the Lakhimpur-Kheri district (Tarai region) of Uttar Pradesh near the Indo-Nepal border.

The text mentions that the winter season in Uttar Pradesh starts from November and lasts until February, with January being the coldest month.

Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar, also known as Rihand Dam, is the largest man-made lake in the country. It is situated at Pipri in Sonbhadra district, bordering Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

The text mentions that there are 2,456 factories of hazardous nature in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

The text indicates that areas of the Bundelkhand region, including Allahabad, Kanpur, and others, experience the highest temperatures during the summer season due to their nearness to the Tropic of Cancer.

National Parks are designated areas developed primarily for the protection of wildlife and biodiversity. Activities such as forestry, hunting, poaching, and grazing on cultivation are not permitted within National Parks.

The Total Forest Cover Scheme, initiated in 2014-15, aims to ensure complete greenery in specific districts of Uttar Pradesh.

Amangarh Tiger Reserve was originally a part of the famed Jim Corbett National Park and remained in Uttar Pradesh after the creation of the state of Uttarakhand.

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest wildlife sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh, covering an area of 2073 sq km across multiple districts.

Project Elephant, launched in 1992, aims to provide financial and technical support for the conservation of free-ranging populations of Wild Asian Elephants.

Bhur and Desert Soil, consisting of Aeolian sand and clay, are found in the Western, Eastern, and Central Ranges of the Gangetic region in Uttar Pradesh. These soils are mainly located in districts like Mathura, Agra, and Aligarh.

The pilgrimage center Badrinath is situated along the banks of the Alaknanda River. Badrinath is a significant town in Uttarakhand and holds cultural and religious importance.

Khadar Soil in the Gangetic plains is characterized by frequent renewal due to flooding. It is fine, light brown, and porous, making it suitable for extensive cultivation without the need for manure.

The Ken River is not a tributary of the Ganga in the Gangetic Plain; instead, it passes through the Bundelkhand region to join the Yamuna.

The text states that the Terai belt districts and entire districts of Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, Bagpat, Bijnor, Meerut, Ghaziabad, Gautambuddh Nagar, JP Nagar, Rampur, Moradabad, Bulandshar in Western UP are in Earthquake High Damage Risk Zone-IV.

The text mentions that in the year 2009, 59 districts in Uttar Pradesh were declared drought-affected.

Parwa Soil, also known as Padwa or Paduwa, is a light red-brownish sandy loam soil found in Hamirpur, Jalaun, and the coastal part of the Yamuna River. It responds well to proper fertilization and irrigation, yielding excellent crops like millet (Kharif) and gram (Rabi).

According to the text, the annual approximate loss due to floods in Uttar Pradesh is Rs. 432 crores.

The first Butterfly Park in Uttar Pradesh was established in Kanpur in 2018 to preserve the ecosystem and attract butterflies.

The Sarus Conservation Society in Uttar Pradesh focuses on the study, ecology, and support activities for the survival of the Sarus crane, supporting extensive educational programs for wetland-rich areas.

The text mentions that Reserved Forest constitutes 65.9% of Uttar Pradesh's forest cover.

The Southern part of Uttar Pradesh is predominantly composed of the Vindhyan Rock System, which formed during the Pre-Cambrian period and includes minerals like limestone, dolomite, and sandstone.

The Bhabar and Terai regions were formed during the Quaternary Period, with the Bhabar region consisting of boulders and pebbles carried by river streams.

The text mentions that the summer season, starting from March to mid-June, witnesses extreme temperatures with the hottest places being Agra and Jhansi. The average maximum temperature during this season ranges from 36°C to 39°C.

According to the text, loo, a local wind, is a common phenomenon in Uttar Pradesh during the summer season. It blows in the state between 10 am to 5 pm, contributing to hot conditions.

The Western and Southern boundaries of Uttar Pradesh are marked by the Yamuna River, creating a significant geographical feature.

The Yamuna River originates from the Yamunotri glacier in the lower Himalayas, specifically in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It flows for 1370 kms before meeting the Ganges at Allahabad.

India's first Elephant Hospital was opened in November 2018 in Agra, near the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC) run by Wildlife Save Our Souls (WLSOS).

The Gopad River, a main tributary of the Son River, emerges from the hills north of the radial drainage Baghelkhand plateau, and it is located in Sonbhadra district.

The Varuna River is a minor tributary of the Ganges and is named after the god Varuna. Varanasi, a significant city, is interpreted to be derived from the name of the Varuna River.