Question

Discuss the significant differences between the Himalayan and the Peninsular rivers.

CBSE Class IX Social Science LA (5 Marks)

Answer 1

The Himalayan Rivers:

- The Himalayan rivers rise in the snow covered mountains and they flow throughout the year.

- The Himalayan rivers flow in levelled Northern Plains. Therefore, they are quite useful for navigation and irrigation.

- The Himalayan rivers bring with them fertile alluvium which    they deposit in the Indo-Gangetic  plains.

 - Canals have been dug to use the water of these rivers for irrigation.

 - Many important towns and centres of trade are situated on the banks of these rivers.

The Peninsular Rivers:
   
- The mountains in which the Peninsular rivers rise are not snow covered. Hence, they dry up in summer.
   
- The Peninsular rivers flow on uneven rocky surface. Therefore, they are neither navigable nor useful for irrigation.
   
- The Peninsular rivers do not bring with them enough alluvium. As the current is swift, so the deposition activity is negligible.

- As the terrain is rocky and the banks of these rivers are high, canals cannot be dug. However, dams are built to store the flood water for irrigation with the help of small channels.
   
- Very few important towns and centres of trade are situated on the banks of these rivers.

Answer 2

Answer:

• Himalayan rivers are perennial and flow the throughout the year. A large number of peninsular rivers are seasonal and flow during a certain period in a year. They receive water from rainfall and melting snow of the mountains and glaciers. ... The peninsular river have short and shallow courses.