Why Himalayan rivers are called perennial rivers?

Question

Answer

The Himalayan rivers are perennial rivers as they originate in snow covered Himalayan mountains. During summers, the snow melts and the rivers get continuous supply of water. On the contrary, the peninsular rivers depend mostly on rainfall for its supply of water and thus becomes dry during the summer season.

Answer

Because they flow throughout the year.

Answer

Perennial rivers are rivers or streams that have a continuous flow of water throughout the year. The only time that these rivers lack water is during extreme droughts.

Himalayan rivers perennial in nature because:

1. Most of the Himalayan rivers originate in snow covered regions of southern heights of Himalayan range. This makes the rivers to be adequately fed by rains especially during the rainy season which is through southwesterly monsoon winds

2. The Himalayan rivers are perennial because they are well by the melting snow during summer, when there are no rains.

Therefore, these are the reasons why the Himalayan rivers are perennial in nature.

Answer

Since they have water throughout the year

Answer

The Perennial Rivers of the Himalayas

Himalayan rivers are known as perennial rivers due to their unique characteristics and the vital role they play in sustaining life in the region. These rivers are considered lifelines for the people living in the Himalayan foothills and the surrounding plains. Let's delve into the reasons why Himalayan rivers are called perennial rivers.

1. Definition of Perennial Rivers
Perennial rivers are those rivers that have a continuous flow of water throughout the year, regardless of the season. These rivers are sustained by various sources, including glaciers, snowmelt, and rainfall. The Himalayan region is blessed with an abundant supply of water due to its high elevation, which contributes to the formation of perennial rivers.

2. Glacial Sources
Glaciers are one of the primary sources of water for Himalayan rivers. The Himalayan range is home to numerous glaciers, including some of the largest and most significant ones in the world, such as Gangotri and Siachen Glacier. These glaciers accumulate snowfall over several years, which gradually melts and feeds the rivers throughout the year. The constant supply of glacial meltwater ensures the perennial nature of these rivers.

3. Snowmelt
In addition to glaciers, snowmelt also contributes to the perennial flow of Himalayan rivers. The high-altitude regions of the Himalayas experience heavy snowfall during winters, which accumulates as a thick layer of snow. As the temperature rises during spring and summer, this snow gradually melts, adding to the river's water volume. The slow and consistent melting process ensures a continuous supply of water even during dry months.

4. Monsoon Rainfall
The monsoon season plays a vital role in the perennial nature of Himalayan rivers. The southwest monsoon winds bring heavy rainfall to the Indian subcontinent, including the Himalayan region. The rainwater gets absorbed by the soil, replenishes groundwater reserves, and ultimately feeds the rivers. The excess rainfall also increases the discharge of these rivers, ensuring their perennial flow even in the absence of snowmelt or glacial sources.

5. Geographical Factors
The unique geographic features of the Himalayas also contribute to the perennial nature of its rivers. The steep slopes and high altitude of the mountains facilitate rapid snowmelt and rainfall runoff. The dense network of rivers and tributaries, combined with the rugged terrain, prevents the water from getting stagnated and allows it to flow continuously.

Overall, the combination of glacial sources, snowmelt, monsoon rainfall, and geographical factors make Himalayan rivers perennial. These rivers provide freshwater for drinking, irrigation, and various other activities, making them crucial for the survival and development of the region's inhabitants.

Similar Class 9 Doubts

Which type of rivers in India are mainly perennial and receive water from rain as well as melted snow from mountains?

Which of the following statement is not correct about the Himalayan rivers.

Most of the Himalayan rivers are perennial in nature.

Which are the two perennial rivers in India?

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