Which of the following rivers are exceptions to the general characteristic of Peninsular rivers forming deltas, as they flow through rift valleys? 1.…

The correct option is

2 and 3 only

.

Explanation

The general gradient of the Peninsular Plateau is from west to east, causing most major rivers to flow into the Bay of Bengal and form deltas. However, specific geological faults created rift valleys that run counter to this general slope. Rivers flowing through these rift valleys typically flow westwards into the Arabian Sea and form estuaries rather than deltas due to the lack of sediment accumulation and swift flow through rocky channels.

Statement-wise Analysis

• 1. Godavari: Incorrect. The Godavari is the largest Peninsular river. It rises in the Western Ghats and flows eastwards across the plateau into the Bay of Bengal. It follows the general gradient of the land and forms an extensive delta. It does not flow through a rift valley.
• 2. Narmada: Correct. The Narmada originates from the Amarkantak plateau and flows westwards. It flows through a rift valley situated between the Vindhya Range to the north and the Satpura Range to the south. It forms an estuary at its mouth.
• 3. Tapi: Correct. The Tapi originates in the Betul district of Madhya Pradesh and flows westwards. It flows in a rift valley parallel to the Narmada, located south of the Satpura Range. It also forms an estuary rather than a delta.
• 4. Mahanadi: Incorrect. The Mahanadi rises in the highlands of Chhattisgarh and flows eastwards through Odisha to the Bay of Bengal. It forms a significant delta and does not flow through a rift valley.

Key Takeaway

The Narmada and Tapi are the primary exceptions among major Peninsular rivers; they flow westwards through rift valleys and form estuaries, whereas most other major Peninsular rivers flow eastwards and form deltas.