The Narmada River flows to the west, while most other large peninsular rivers flow to the east. Why?

1. It occupies a linear rift valley.
2. It flows between the Vindhyas and the Satpuras.
3. The land slopes to the west from Central India

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2013 Prelims]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3

(c) 1 and 3

(d) None

Answer: (a)

Explanation:

• The Narmada River originates at an altitude of approximately 1,057m on the western side of the Amarkantak plateau.
• It is one of the few peninsular rivers that flow westwards, and unlike most others, it is perennial.
• The river passes through the Bharuch district of Gujarat, meandering across its fertile plain.
• As it flows through the rift valley between the Satpura and Vindhyan ranges, it creates a beautiful gorge in the marble rocks and the Dhuandhar waterfall near Jabalpur.
• The Narmada River flows for around 1,312 km before reaching the Arabian Sea, forming a wide estuary that stretches for 27 km south of Bharuch.
• The Sardar Sarovar Dam has been constructed on the river.
• It is often referred to as the ‘Lifeline of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat’.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.