The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats mark the western and eastern edges of the Deccan Plateau, respectively. While both are mountain ranges bordering the peninsular plateau, they exhibit distinct physiographic characteristics regarding continuity, elevation, and drainage patterns.- Statement 1 is Correct: The Western Ghats are significantly higher than the Eastern Ghats. The average elevation of the Western Ghats ranges between 900 and 1600 metres, whereas the Eastern Ghats are lower, with an average elevation of approximately 600 metres.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The Western Ghats form a continuous wall of mountains running parallel to the western coast. Due to this continuity, they can be crossed only through specific passes, such as the Thal, Bhor, and Pal Ghats.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Eastern Ghats are not continuous. They are highly eroded and discontinuous because they are dissected by major east-flowing rivers-the Mahanadi, the Godavari, the Krishna, and the Kaveri-which drain into the Bay of Bengal.
- Statement 4 is Incorrect: The height of the Western Ghats progressively increases from north to south, not decreases. The highest peaks of the range, including Anamudi (2,695 metres) and Doddabetta (2,637 metres), are located in the southern section of the Ghats.
Key Takeaway: The Western Ghats are a continuous, high-elevation range where height increases southward, whereas the Eastern Ghats are a discontinuous, lower-elevation range eroded by major peninsular rivers.