Correct Option
The correct option is Moving parallel to the Eastern Ghats towards Odisha..
Explanation
The Southwest Monsoon approaches the Indian subcontinent in two distinct arms: the Arabian Sea branch and the Bay of Bengal branch. Due to the topographical configuration of the Indian peninsula, the Arabian Sea branch splits into three distinct sub-branches upon reaching the landmass.
Option Analysis
- Climbing the slopes of the Western Ghats. is a correct path: The first branch strikes the Western Ghats almost perpendicularly. These winds climb the slopes of the Western Ghats, causing heavy orographic rainfall on the windward side (Konkan and Malabar coasts).
- Moving along the Narmada and Tapi river valleys. is a correct path: The second branch strikes the coast north of Mumbai and moves inland through the rift valleys of the Narmada and Tapi rivers. This branch brings rainfall to extensive areas of central India.
- Striking the Saurashtra Peninsula and Kachchh. is a correct path: The third branch strikes the Saurashtra Peninsula and the Kachchh region. It then passes over western Rajasthan and along the Aravallis, causing scanty rainfall, before joining the Bay of Bengal branch over the Gangetic plains.
- Moving parallel to the Eastern Ghats towards Odisha. is NOT a correct path: The Arabian Sea branch does not move parallel to the Eastern Ghats towards Odisha. The Eastern Ghats and the Odisha coast are primarily influenced by the Bay of Bengal branch of the monsoon. The Arabian Sea branch is restricted to the western and central parts of the peninsula and northwest India.
Key Takeaway
The Arabian Sea branch of the Southwest Monsoon has three specific trajectories: obstructing against the Western Ghats, entering through the Narmada-Tapi rift valleys, and passing over Saurashtra/Kachchh parallel to the Aravallis.