The Deccan Plateau
Explanation
The phenomenon described is a result of Orographic Rainfall (Relief Rainfall). When moisture-laden winds encounter a mountain barrier, they are forced to rise, cool, condense, and precipitate on the windward side. As the winds cross the summit and descend on the leeward side, they warm up and their capacity to hold moisture increases, resulting in very little rainfall. This dry leeward area is known as the rain shadow region.
Option Analysis
- The Malabar Coast The Malabar Coast: Incorrect. This region is located on the western side of the Western Ghats (windward side). It receives very heavy rainfall from the Southwest Monsoon winds.
- The Deccan Plateau The Deccan Plateau: Correct. The Deccan Plateau is situated to the east of the Western Ghats. Since the Western Ghats block the moisture-laden Southwest Monsoon winds, the plateau lies on the leeward side (rain shadow area) and receives significantly less rainfall compared to the coastal regions.
- The Konkan Coast The Konkan Coast: Incorrect. Similar to the Malabar Coast, the Konkan Coast lies on the windward side of the Western Ghats and experiences heavy precipitation.
- The Goa Coast The Goa Coast: Incorrect. This area is also part of the western coastal plain on the windward side of the Ghats, receiving abundant rainfall.
Key Takeaway: The Western Ghats act as a climatic barrier; the western slopes (windward) receive heavy orographic rainfall, while the eastern slopes and the Deccan Plateau (leeward) constitute a semi-arid rain shadow region.