The correct option is D.
Explanation
The physiography of the Indian Peninsular plateau is characterized by structural features resulting from tectonic movements. The formation of the Narmada and Tapi river valleys is attributed to the vertical movements of the Earth's crust during the Himalayan orogeny.
- Block Faulting: During the upliftment of the Himalayas, the Peninsular block experienced intense pressure and tension. This led to the creation of fractures and faults in the ancient crystalline rocks. The subsidence of land between parallel faults resulted in the formation of 'Graben' or rift valleys. The Narmada and Tapi rivers flow through these structural depressions.
- Glaciation: This process involves the erosional and depositional work of glaciers. The Peninsular plateau, being located in tropical latitudes and having moderate elevations, was not subjected to significant glacial action that could form major river valleys.
- Volcanic Eruption: While the Deccan Traps were formed by fissure-type volcanic eruptions, the specific linear valleys of the Narmada and Tapi are tectonic features (faults) rather than direct products of volcanic accumulation or craters.
- Wind Erosion: This is an aeolian process dominant in arid regions. It modifies surface topography but lacks the structural capacity to create deep, linear rift valleys in hard crystalline basement rocks.
Key Takeaway: The Narmada and Tapi are atypical perennial rivers in the Peninsular plateau because they flow westwards through rift valleys created by tectonic block faulting (subsidence) rather than following the general eastward slope of the plateau.