Important Questions (2 marks): Drainage - Class 9

The Dibang and Lohit are the tributaries of the river Brahmaputra.
Explanation:
- The Dibang River is one of the major tributaries of the Brahmaputra River. It originates in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh in India.
- The Lohit River is also a significant tributary of the Brahmaputra River. It also originates in Arunachal Pradesh and flows through the eastern part of the state.
- Both the Dibang and Lohit rivers join the Brahmaputra River in the Indian state of Assam.
- The Brahmaputra River is one of the major rivers in Asia and flows through India, China, and Bangladesh.
- It is a transboundary river and plays a crucial role in the economy and ecology of the region it traverses.
Therefore, the correct answer is B: Brahmaputra.

Location on the Water Divide between the Indus and Ganga River System
The place located on the water divide between the Indus and Ganga river system is Ambala.
Explanation:
- Ambala is a city in the state of Haryana, India.
- It is situated on the water divide between the Indus and Ganga river systems.
- The Indus River system originates in the Tibetan plateau and flows through northwest India, while the Ganga River system originates in the Himalayas and flows through northern India.
- Ambala acts as a watershed between these two river systems, with the water divide running through the city.
- As a result, the rainfall in Ambala can flow towards either the Indus or Ganga river systems, depending on the location within the city.
- This unique geographical position makes Ambala an important location for water management and also contributes to its agricultural significance.
Therefore, the correct answer is option A: Ambala.

The second biggest waterfall in India is Jog Falls, and it is formed by the Sharavati River. The correct answer is B: Kaveri.
Here is a detailed solution:
1. Jog Falls: Jog Falls is located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, India. It is one of the highest plunge waterfalls in the country, with a height of approximately 830 feet (253 meters). The falls are created by the Sharavati River, which is a major river in Karnataka.
2. Sharavati River: The Sharavati River originates in the Western Ghats and flows through the state of Karnataka. It is a west-flowing river and forms the Jog Falls as it cascades down the rocky cliffs. The river then continues its journey and eventually joins the Arabian Sea.
3. Kaveri River: The Kaveri River is one of the major rivers in India, flowing through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. It is also known as the Cauvery River. While the Kaveri River has several waterfalls along its course, Jog Falls is not one of them.
4. Other rivers: The Godavari, Mahanadi, and Narmada rivers mentioned in the options are also major rivers in India, but none of them forms the Jog Falls.
In conclusion, the correct answer is B: Kaveri. The Jog Falls in India is formed by the Sharavati River, not the Kaveri or any other river mentioned in the options.

Origin place of River Indus
The correct answer is option C: Mansarovar.
Explanation:
The River Indus, one of the longest rivers in Asia, originates from Mansarovar Lake in the Tibetan plateau in China. It flows through Tibet, India, and Pakistan, covering a total length of approximately 3,180 kilometers.
Here are some key points to support this answer:
- Mansarovar Lake: Located at an altitude of 4,590 meters in the Tibetan plateau, Mansarovar Lake is considered sacred by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. It is believed to be the source of four major rivers, including the Indus.
- Tibetan Plateau: The Tibetan plateau is a vast elevated region in Central Asia. It is often referred to as the "Roof of the World" and is the source of many major rivers in Asia, including the Indus.
- Indus River: After originating from Mansarovar Lake, the Indus River flows through Tibet before entering India. It then passes through the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, continues through Pakistan, and finally empties into the Arabian Sea.
Therefore, the correct origin place of the River Indus is Mansarovar, as mentioned in option C.

Saline Water Lake:
- A saline water lake is a body of water that contains a high concentration of salts.
- Saline water lakes are formed in areas with high evaporation rates, leaving behind dissolved salts in the water.
- These lakes often have a high mineral content and are not suitable for drinking or irrigation.
Options:
A: Sambhar
- Sambhar Lake is a saline water lake located in the state of Rajasthan, India.
- It is the largest inland salt lake in India and is known for its high salt production.
- The lake attracts a large number of migratory birds and is a popular tourist destination.
B: Dal
- Dal Lake is a freshwater lake located in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
- It is known for its picturesque beauty and is often referred to as the "Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir."
- Dal Lake is not a saline water lake.
C: Wular
- Wular Lake is a freshwater lake located in Jammu and Kashmir, India.
- It is the largest freshwater lake in India and serves as an important habitat for a variety of aquatic plants and animals.
- Wular Lake is not a saline water lake.
D: Barapan
- There is no known lake named Barapan, so it cannot be identified as a saline water lake.
Conclusion:
- Among the given options, the saline water lake is Sambhar (Option A).
- Sambhar Lake is known for its high salt content and is located in Rajasthan, India.

Statement A:
- 71 per cent of the world's surface is covered with water.
- 97 per cent of that is saltwater.
Statement B:
- 97 per cent of the water in the world is suitable for human consumption.
Statement C:
- 97 per cent of available water is freshwater.
Analysis:
- Statement A is true. According to scientific estimates, around 71% of the Earth's surface is covered with water, and about 97% of that water is in the form of saltwater found in oceans and seas.
- Statement B is false. Only a small percentage of the world's water is suitable for human consumption, which is less than 3%.
- Statement C is false. Freshwater makes up only a small fraction of the world's total water supply, estimated to be around 2.5%.
Conclusion:
- The correct statement is A. 71 per cent of the world's surface is covered with water, but 97 per cent of that is saltwater.

Indus Water Treaty
The Indus Water Treaty is a water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan regarding the distribution of water from the Indus River and its tributaries. It was signed on September 19, 1960, in Karachi, Pakistan.
Key Points:
- The treaty was brokered by the World Bank as a result of long-standing disputes over the sharing of the Indus River's waters between India and Pakistan.
- The treaty divided the six rivers of the Indus system into two categories: the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej) allocated to India and the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab) allocated to Pakistan.
- India was granted the unrestricted use of the eastern rivers for various purposes, including irrigation, power generation, and domestic use.
- Pakistan was given exclusive rights to the western rivers, with India being allowed limited use for non-consumptive purposes such as power generation.
- The treaty established the Permanent Indus Commission, consisting of commissioners from both countries, to resolve any disputes or disagreements regarding the implementation of the treaty.
- It also included provisions for data exchange, inspections, and arbitration if necessary.
Conclusion:
The Indus Water Treaty was signed in 1960 as a means to address water-sharing issues between India and Pakistan. It has been instrumental in maintaining a framework for cooperation and resolving conflicts over water resources between the two countries.

Major River of Tamil Nadu: Kaveri
Explanation:
The major river of Tamil Nadu is the Kaveri river. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Location:
- Tamil Nadu is a state located in the southern part of India.
- The Kaveri river flows through Tamil Nadu and is one of the most important rivers in the state.
2. Origin:
- The river originates from the Brahmagiri hills in the Western Ghats of Karnataka.
- It then flows through the Deccan Plateau and enters Tamil Nadu.
3. Flow:
- The Kaveri river passes through several districts of Tamil Nadu, including Coimbatore, Erode, Tiruchirappalli, Thanjavur, and Pudukkottai.
- It is a perennial river, meaning it flows throughout the year.
4. Importance:
- The Kaveri river is of great significance to Tamil Nadu as it provides water for irrigation, drinking, and industrial purposes.
- It supports agriculture in the region, especially the cultivation of paddy, sugarcane, and other crops.
- The river also has cultural and religious significance, with several temples and pilgrim centers located along its banks.
5. Disputes:
- The Kaveri river is also a subject of disputes between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka due to the sharing of its waters.
- The distribution of water from the river has been a contentious issue between the two states, leading to legal battles and protests.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the major river of Tamil Nadu is the Kaveri river. It plays a vital role in the state's agriculture, economy, and culture. The river originates in Karnataka and flows through several districts of Tamil Nadu, providing water for various purposes. However, water-sharing disputes between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have been a recurring issue regarding the Kaveri river.

Length of Mahanadi River:
- The given statement states that the length of Mahanadi River is 860 km. Let's analyze the statement to determine its accuracy.
Evaluating the Statement:
- To determine the accuracy of the statement, we need to verify the length of Mahanadi River.
Fact Check:
- The length of Mahanadi River is indeed 860 km.
Conclusion:
- Based on the fact check, the statement is true.
Explanation:
- The Mahanadi River is one of the major rivers in India, flowing through the states of Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
- It originates from the Sihawa Range of hills in Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh and flows for a length of 860 km before merging into the Bay of Bengal.
- The river is an important water source for irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power generation in the region.
- Therefore, the given statement that the length of Mahanadi River is 860 km is true.

Answer:
The Royal Bengal Tiger is found in the following national parks in India:
- Sunderban National Park: Located in West Bengal, Sunderban National Park is the largest mangrove forest in the world and is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction.
- Jim Corbett National Park: Situated in Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is India's oldest national park. It is named after the famous hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett and is known for its diverse wildlife, including the Royal Bengal Tiger.
- Gir National Park: Located in Gujarat, Gir National Park is the only place in India where the Asiatic Lion is found. However, it is also home to the Royal Bengal Tiger along with other wildlife species.
Therefore, the correct answer is option A: Sunderban National Park.

The Dibang and the Lohit are the tributaries of the river Brahmaputra.
The Brahmaputra River is one of the major rivers in Asia, flowing through China, India, and Bangladesh. It is known for its vast drainage basin and its importance in the region. The Dibang and the Lohit are two of its prominent tributaries.
Here is a detailed explanation of the given question:
The Dibang:
- The Dibang River is a tributary of the Brahmaputra River located in the state of Arunachal Pradesh in India.
- It originates in the eastern Himalayas and flows through the Mishmi Hills before joining the Brahmaputra River.
- The Dibang River is known for its scenic beauty and is an important water source for the surrounding areas.
The Lohit:
- The Lohit River is also a tributary of the Brahmaputra River and is located in the state of Arunachal Pradesh in India.
- It originates in the eastern Himalayas and flows through the Mishmi Hills before joining the Brahmaputra River.
- The Lohit River is known for its swift currents and is considered holy by the local communities.
Conclusion:
- The Dibang and the Lohit are two important tributaries of the Brahmaputra River.
- They contribute to the overall flow and water volume of the Brahmaputra River.
- The presence of these tributaries enhances the ecological diversity and importance of the Brahmaputra River basin.
(Note: The options A, B, and C mentioned in the question are incorrect. The correct answer is option D - Brahmaputra.)

Sundarban Delta and the Royal Bengal Tiger
The Sundarban Delta is a vast mangrove forest located in the Bay of Bengal, shared by Bangladesh and India. It is the largest delta in the world and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. One of the most iconic and prominent animals found in the Sundarbans is the Royal Bengal Tiger.
Here is a detailed explanation of why the Royal Bengal Tiger is considered the homeland animal of the Sundarban Delta:
1. Habitat: The Sundarbans provide the perfect habitat for the Royal Bengal Tiger. The mangrove forests, waterways, and mudflats create a unique ecosystem that supports the tiger's survival and sustenance.
2. Population: The Sundarbans are estimated to have the largest population of Royal Bengal Tigers in the world. The delta is home to approximately 400 tigers, making it a vital conservation area for this endangered species.
3. Adaptations: The Royal Bengal Tigers in the Sundarbans have unique adaptations due to their environment. They are excellent swimmers and have adapted to living in the mangrove forests, where they hunt for prey both on land and in water.
4. Prey Availability: The Sundarbans is rich in biodiversity, providing an abundance of prey for the tigers. Deer, wild boars, water buffalo, and various species of fish are among their primary food sources.
5. Conservation Efforts: The Sundarbans' significance as a habitat for Royal Bengal Tigers has led to various conservation initiatives. Both Bangladesh and India have established national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to protect the tigers and their habitat.
In conclusion, the Sundarban Delta is considered the homeland for the Royal Bengal Tiger due to its unique habitat, large population, adaptations, prey availability, and conservation efforts. The presence of these majestic tigers adds to the ecological importance and beauty of the Sundarbans.

Dendritic Drainage Pattern:
The drainage pattern resembling the branches of a tree is known as a dendritic drainage pattern. This pattern is formed when water flows in a random manner, resembling the branching of a tree. Here is a detailed explanation of the dendritic drainage pattern:
1. Definition: A dendritic drainage pattern is characterized by a stream network with a treelike appearance, where the main river channel is formed by the confluence of smaller tributaries.
2. Formation: The dendritic pattern is formed when the underlying rock or soil is relatively uniform in terms of resistance to erosion. It occurs when water flows over a uniform slope, eroding the landscape in a random manner.
3. Branching: The main river channel is the trunk of the tree, and the smaller tributaries represent the branches. These tributaries join the main channel at acute angles, resembling the branching pattern of a tree.
4. Characteristics: The dendritic pattern is common in areas with flat or gently sloping terrain and homogeneous geology. It is the most common and basic drainage pattern found in nature.
5. Efficient Drainage: The dendritic pattern is efficient in draining water because it allows water to flow in multiple directions, minimizing the chances of flooding. It also provides an equal distribution of water throughout the drainage basin.
6. Examples: Dendritic drainage patterns can be found in various parts of the world, including the Amazon River basin, the Mississippi River system, and many other river networks.
In conclusion, the drainage pattern resembling the branches of a tree is known as the dendritic drainage pattern. It is formed when water flows in a random manner over a uniform slope, creating a treelike network of tributaries. This pattern is efficient in draining water and can be found in various parts of the world.

Tributaries of River Indus
The correct answer is option A, the tributaries of the mentioned rivers are tributaries of the Indus River. Let's discuss each option in detail:
Option A: Indus
- The Zaskar, Nubra, Shyok, and Hunza are all tributaries of the Indus River.
- The Indus River is one of the longest rivers in Asia, flowing through India, Pakistan, and China.
- It originates from the Tibetan Plateau in China and flows through the Himalayas before entering Pakistan and eventually merging into the Arabian Sea.
Option B: Brahmaputra
- The Brahmaputra River is a separate river system located in India and Bangladesh.
- It originates in Tibet and flows through India and Bangladesh before merging with the Ganges River in the Bay of Bengal.
Option C: Ganga
- The Ganga (Ganges) River is also a separate river system and is not related to the Zaskar, Nubra, Shyok, or Hunza rivers.
- The Ganges River is one of the major rivers in India, flowing through the northern part of the country.
Option D: Godavari
- The Godavari River is the second-longest river in India and is located in the southern part of the country.
- It has its own independent river system and is not connected to the Indus or the mentioned tributaries.
In conclusion, the correct answer is option A, the Zaskar, Nubra, Shyok, and Hunza are tributaries of the Indus River.

According to the Indus Water Treaty 1960, how much water carried by the Indus river system can be used by India?

According to the Indus Water Treaty 1960, India is allowed to use:

• 20 per cent of the total water

River System:

• A river along with its tributaries is known as a river system.


• A river system consists of the main river and all its tributaries.


• Tributaries are smaller rivers or streams that flow into the main river.


• The main river and its tributaries together form a network of watercourses.


• River systems are an integral part of the Earth's hydrological cycle.


• They play a crucial role in transporting water, sediments, and nutrients.


• River systems also provide habitats for various plants and animals.


• They are important for human activities such as transportation, irrigation, and hydropower generation.


• Examples of famous river systems include the Amazon River system, the Mississippi River system, and the Nile River system.

Most of the Himalayan rivers are perennial in nature.
The given statement is True.

Explanation:

Perennial rivers are those rivers that flow throughout the year, regardless of the season. They are fed by glaciers, snowmelt, and rainfall, which ensure a continuous water supply. In the case of the Himalayan rivers, most of them meet this criterion and are considered perennial. Here are the reasons why most Himalayan rivers are perennial:
1. Glacier-fed: The Himalayas are home to numerous glaciers, which act as a constant source of water for the rivers. These glaciers receive snowfall during winter and gradually melt during warmer months, ensuring a steady flow of water in the rivers.
2. Monsoon rainfall: The Himalayan region experiences heavy monsoon rainfall, which further contributes to the water flow in the rivers. The monsoon rains replenish the rivers, helping them maintain their perennial nature.
3. Snowmelt: The Himalayas have extensive snow cover, especially in higher altitudes. As the snow melts during the warmer months, it adds to the volume of water in the rivers, ensuring their continuous flow.
4. Steep slopes: The Himalayan region is characterized by steep slopes and rugged terrain. This topography allows the rivers to flow swiftly, preventing water from stagnating and enabling a continuous flow throughout the year.
Overall, the combination of glacier-fed sources, monsoon rainfall, snowmelt, and the geographical features of the Himalayas contribute to the perennial nature of most Himalayan rivers.

The correct statement about the Himalayan rivers is:
A: Himalayan rivers are perennial
- Perennial rivers are those that have water throughout the year. The Himalayan rivers receive water from melting snow and glaciers, which ensures a continuous flow.
B: They have water throughout the year
- This statement is correct. The Himalayan rivers receive water from various sources, including snowmelt and monsoon rains, which ensures a constant water supply throughout the year.
C: The Himalayan rivers have short courses from their source to the sea
- This statement is incorrect. The Himalayan rivers have long courses as they originate from the high mountains and flow through the plains before reaching the sea. They cover a significant distance in their journey.
D: They perform an intensive erosional activity in their upper courses and carry huge loads of silt and sand.
- This statement is correct. The Himalayan rivers have a steep gradient in their upper courses, which leads to intense erosional activity. They carry a large amount of sediment, including silt and sand, due to this erosion.
Therefore, the correct answer is C: The Himalayan rivers have short courses from their source to the sea, as it is not correct.

River flowing through a rift valley:
The river that flows through a rift valley is the Tapi River.
Explanation:
The Tapi River is one of the major rivers in peninsular India and it flows through a rift valley. Here is a detailed explanation:
- Rift valley: A rift valley is a linear-shaped lowland between highlands or mountain ranges created by the movement of tectonic plates. It is formed when the Earth's crust is stretched and thinned, causing it to break apart and create a depression.
- Tapi River: The Tapi River is a river in western India that originates in the Betul district of Madhya Pradesh. It flows through the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat before emptying into the Arabian Sea.
- Rift valley characteristics: Rift valleys are characterized by steep walls and a flat bottom. They are often created by the movement of faults, which can cause the land to sink and form a depression. Rift valleys are also associated with volcanic activity and can have lakes or rivers flowing through them.
- Tapi River in a rift valley: The Tapi River flows through a rift valley known as the Tapi Valley. This valley was formed due to the movement of the Narmada and Tapi faults, which created a depression in the landscape. The river has eroded the valley over time, creating a wide and flat-bottomed channel.
- Importance of the Tapi River: The Tapi River is an important water source for the regions it passes through. It provides irrigation water for agriculture, supports local ecosystems, and is a source of drinking water for many communities. The river also has cultural and historical significance, with several cities and towns located along its course.
In conclusion, the Tapi River is a notable example of a river that flows through a rift valley. Its presence in the Tapi Valley showcases the geological processes involved in the formation of rift valleys and highlights the importance of rivers in shaping landscapes and supporting human activities.

The Yamuna tributary is the longest and also second largest tributary river of Ganges in north India. It originates from the Yamunotri glacier at a height of about meters. It travels a total length of about kilometers. Before joining with the Ganges at Triveni sangam, Allahabad, the site for the kumbh mela every twelve years.