IAS 2011 — Environment & Ecology Environment & Ecology

2011mcqmedium

Two important rivers - one with its source in Jharkhand (and known by a different name in Odisha), and another with its source in Odisha - merge at a place only a short distance from the coast of Bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. This is an important site of wildlife and biodiversity and a protected area. Which one of the following could be this ?

Official previous-year question

Verified 2 Aug 2026.

Options

ABhitarkanika
BChandipur-on-sea
CGopalpur-on-sea
DSimlipal

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Solution

Correct Option (A):

The description accurately refers to Bhitarkanika National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Odisha. This protected area is a significant mangrove ecosystem formed in the deltaic region of two major rivers:

The Brahmani River, which originates in Jharkhand (formed by the confluence of the Sankh and South Koel rivers).
The Baitarani River, which originates in the Gonasika hills of the Keonjhar district in Odisha.

These rivers merge a short distance from the Bay of Bengal, creating a rich estuarine environment. Bhitarkanika is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, particularly its population of saltwater crocodiles, migratory birds, and diverse mangrove species. It is designated as a Ramsar site, highlighting its importance as a wetland ecosystem.

Incorrect Options:

Chandipur-on-sea: This is a coastal town in Odisha known for its unique receding beach phenomenon, where the sea recedes significantly during low tide. It is not primarily recognized as a major river delta or a protected area for significant biodiversity in the context described.
Gopalpur-on-sea: This is a popular beach town and a former seaport located in the Ganjam district of Odisha. It is a coastal settlement and does not fit the description of a riverine delta ecosystem or a protected area formed by the confluence of two major rivers as specified in the question.
Simlipal: Simlipal National Park is a prominent tiger reserve and a biosphere reserve situated in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. It is a terrestrial ecosystem, primarily known for its forests, waterfalls, and wildlife, including tigers and elephants. It is not a coastal or riverine delta ecosystem where two rivers merge into the sea.

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Correct Option (A):

The Brahmani River, which originates in Jharkhand (formed by the confluence of the Sankh and South Koel rivers).
The Baitarani River, which originates in the Gonasika hills of the Keonjhar district in Odisha.

Incorrect Options:

Chandipur-on-sea: This is a coastal town in Odisha known for its unique receding beach phenomenon, where the sea recedes significantly during low tide. It is not primarily recognized as a major river delta or a protected area for significant biodiversity in the context described.
Gopalpur-on-sea: This is a popular beach town and a former seaport located in the Ganjam district of Odisha. It is a coastal settlement and does not fit the description of a riverine delta ecosystem or a protected area formed by the confluence of two major rivers as specified in the question.
Simlipal: Simlipal National Park is a prominent tiger reserve and a biosphere reserve situated in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. It is a terrestrial ecosystem, primarily known for its forests, waterfalls, and wildlife, including tigers and elephants. It is not a coastal or riverine delta ecosystem where two rivers merge into the sea.