The Brahmaputra River System is one of the largest and most significant river systems in India. Originating in the majestic Himalayas, this river flows through three countries: Tibet (China), India, and Bangladesh. Understanding the Brahmaputra River System is crucial for various examinations, including the UPSC and State PCS where geography topics play a significant role.
Brahmaputra River: Origin and Journey
The Brahmaputra River begins its journey from the Chemayungdung Glacier in the Kailash Range at an altitude of about 5,150 metres near the Mansarovar Lake in Tibet. The Brahmaputra river flows through Tibet from its origin and enters India through Arunachal Pradesh, where it is known as the Dihang River.
In India, it flows through the lush green landscapes of Assam and into Bangladesh, where it joins the Ganges and Meghna rivers to finally reach the Bay of Bengal. The total length of the Brahmaputra River is about 2,900 kilometres, making it one of the longest rivers in Asia.
Length Breakdown
- Tibet: 1,700 km
- India: 916 km
- Bangladesh: 284 km
- Total: 2,900 km
Brahmaputra River: Geographic Features
The average width of the Brahmaputra River is about 5.46 kilometers. The Brahmaputra river’s catchment area spans approximately 580,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest river basins in the world. It has an average annual discharge of around 19,820 cubic meters per second, which highlights its capacity to transport water.
Sediment Load and Flooding
The Brahmaputra River carries an average sediment load of about 735 million metric tons annually, contributing to its rich and fertile floodplains. However, this sediment also poses challenges, as heavy rains during the monsoon season can lead to flooding in the river’s catchment areas.
Brahmaputra River Map
We have attached the Brahmaputra river map reference for better and clear understanding about the flow of various rivers and their meeting points. This view helps to understand all the tributaries of the Brahmaputra and other important information with more ease and accuracy.
Tributaries of the Brahmaputra River
The Brahmaputra River is fed by numerous tributaries that enhance its flow and contribute to the surrounding ecosystems. These tributaries can be divided into two categories based on their location: north bank tributaries and south bank tributaries.
North Bank Tributaries: Some of the major north bank tributaries include:
- Subansiri River
- Rongnadi
- Dikrong
- Buroi
- Borgong
- Jiabharali
- Dhansiri (North)
These rivers originate from various mountainous regions and join the Brahmaputra, significantly increasing its water flow.
South Bank Tributaries: The important south bank tributaries are:
- Noadehing
- Buridehing
- Desang
- Dikho
- Bhogdoi
- Dhansiri (South)
- Kopili
- Kulsi
- Krishnai
- Dhadnoi
- Jinjiran
Each tributary has its own unique characteristics and flow patterns, and they all contribute to the dynamics of the Brahmaputra River System.
Major Tributaries for UPSC aspirants, it’s essential to know the major tributaries of the Brahmaputra, including:
Notable Tributaries
Subansiri River: Originating in Tibet, it flows into India and joins the Brahmaputra at Jamurighat in Lakhimpur district, Assam.
Manas River: This river begins in Bhutan, flows through Assam, and joins the Brahmaputra near Jogighopa. It offers picturesque views along its course.
Dhansiri River: Originating from the Patkai Mountain range, it flows through Tinsukia and Dibrugarh in Assam.
Siang River: Known for its glacial origins, it flows for about 1,600 kilometers through Tibet and then southward into Arunachal Pradesh.
Kopili River: Originating in Meghalaya, this river flows into Assam and meets the Brahmaputra at Kopilimukh.
Key Features of the Brahmaputra River System
Largest River Island: The world’s largest river island, Majuli Island, is situated in the middle of the Brahmaputra River.
Hydroelectric Potential: The Brahmaputra River System has a hydroelectric potential estimated at 66,065 MW, making it crucial for power generation in the region.
Longest Bridge: The Dhola-Sadiya Bridge, spanning 9.15 kilometers, is India’s longest bridge over water and enhances connectivity in the region.
Fertile Soil: The river provides fertile soil for agriculture, supporting local communities and economies.
Economic Significance
The Brahmaputra River plays a vital role in the economy of the regions it flows through. It provides water for irrigation, supporting agriculture in Assam and surrounding areas. The river is also a significant source of hydroelectric power, with two operational dams—the Ranganadi Dam and the Rangit Dam—generating a collective power of 465 MW.
Furthermore, the Brahmaputra River supports fisheries, providing livelihoods to countless families in the region. The river also serves as an important transportation route, connecting remote villages and facilitating trade and commerce between India and Bangladesh.
Environmental Impact and Challenges
While the Brahmaputra River System supports diverse ecosystems and communities, it also faces several challenges. The region experiences heavy rainfall, particularly during the monsoon season, leading to annual flooding that can devastate communities and agriculture.
Additionally, the river is affected by climate change, which alters rainfall patterns and can lead to changes in water flow. Deforestation and human activities along the riverbanks also pose threats to its health and the well-being of the communities that depend on it.
Conclusion
The Brahmaputra River System is not only a geographical marvel but also a lifeline for millions of people in India and beyond. Its significance in terms of irrigation, hydroelectric power and ecology cannot be overstated. Understanding the various aspects of this river system is essential for students and aspirants preparing for competitive exams like the UPSC.
