The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The Peninsular drainage system is geologically older than the Himalayan system. Its drainage patterns are largely determined by the Western Ghats, the tilt of the Peninsular block, and geological faults such as rift valleys.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: The Western Ghats, running close to the western coast from north to south, form the primary water divide in Peninsular India. They separate the rivers flowing eastwards into the Bay of Bengal (such as the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri) from the smaller, swift-flowing rivers draining westwards into the Arabian Sea.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The Godavari and Krishna are east-flowing rivers that drain into the Bay of Bengal and form extensive deltas. The Narmada and Tapi are the major long rivers that flow westwards through rift valleys and form estuaries instead of deltas.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The drainage basins of the major Himalayan rivers (Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra) are significantly larger than those of the Peninsular rivers. For example, the Ganga basin is the largest in India, whereas the Godavari basin, the largest in the Peninsula, covers a comparatively smaller area.
Key Takeaway:
The Western Ghats act as the main water divide in Peninsular India. While most major Peninsular rivers flow east and form deltas, the Narmada and Tapi flow west through rift valleys and form estuaries.