Question

Bring out clearly the differences in the drainage features and hydrological characteristics between the Himalayan rivers and the Peninsular rivers. Support your answer with suitable examples.

Compare and contrast the Himalayan rivers with the Peninsular rivers.

Answer 1

Aspect	Himalayan Rivers	Peninsular Rivers
Source	Originate from Himalayan glaciers and snowfields.	Originate from the Peninsular plateau (mainly rainfall-fed).
Nature	Perennial (flow all year) due to snowmelt and rainfall.	Seasonal (flow mainly during monsoon).
Flow	Have a longer course and flow through plains and mountains.	Have a longer course and flow through plains and mountains.
Erosion and Deposition	Form gorges, meanders, floodplains, and deltas (e.g., Ganga, Brahmaputra).	Form narrow valleys and estuaries (e.g., Narmada, Tapi).
Sediment Load	Carry heavy sediment load, forming fertile plains.	Carry less sediment, limited plain formation.
Examples:	Ganga, Yamuna, Brahmaputra, Indus.	Godavari, Krishna, Narmada, and Mahanadi.