The Narmada
Explanation
The Narmada is the largest west-flowing river of Peninsular India. It flows westwards through a rift valley situated between the Vindhya Range to the north and the Satpura Range to the south.Detailed Analysis:
- Geological Feature: Near Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh, the Narmada river flows through a deep gorge carved out of magnesium limestone rocks. These steep, white rocks are famously known as the ‘Marble Rocks’ (located at Bhedaghat).
- Associated Features: As the river flows through this gorge, it creates the Dhuandhar Falls ("Cloud of Mist"), where the water plunges down a steep vertical drop, creating a misty effect.
- Comparison:
- The Tapi flows parallel to the Narmada but further south and does not pass through Jabalpur.
- The Chambal is known for its badland topography (ravines) in the Malwa plateau region.
- The Son is a tributary of the Ganga originating from the Amarkantak plateau but flows north-eastwards.
Key Takeaway: The Narmada river is characterized by its flow through a rift valley, the formation of the ‘Marble Rocks’ gorge near Jabalpur, and the Dhuandhar Falls.