Question map
Which one of the following rivers flows between Satpura and Vindhya ranges?
Explanation
The Narmada river is the largest west-flowing river of Peninsular India, originating from the Amarkantak plateau in Madhya Pradesh [3]. It flows through a prominent rift valley formed by tectonic activity, situated specifically between the Vindhya Range to the north and the Satpura Range to the south [3]. This unique geological positioning allows the river to flow westward despite the general eastward tilt of the Deccan plateau. In contrast, the Tapi river flows south of the Satpura Range, between the Satpuras and the Ajanta Range [1]. Other rivers like the Mahi and Sabarmati also flow westward but do not occupy the specific structural trough between the Vindhya and Satpura ranges [2]. The Narmada's course is characterized by features like the Dhuandhar waterfall and a long estuary near Bharuch [3].
Sources
- [3] INDIA PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT, Geography Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 3: Drainage System > River Systems of the Peninsular Drainage > p. 24
- [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 3: The Drainage System of India > Tapi River > p. 20
- [2] CONTEMPORARY INDIA-I ,Geography, Class IX . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 3: Drainage > The Tapi Basin > p. 21