Context
Large stretches of the Bhavani River near Kooduthurai in Bhavani (Tamil Nadu) have recently been covered by water hyacinth, an invasive alien aquatic weed.
About Bhavani River
- The Bhavani River is a major tributary of the Cauvery River that flows through Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It is the second-largest river in Tamil Nadu.
- The river originates in the Western Ghats, in the Nilgiri Hills of Tiruppur district (Tamil Nadu), at an elevation of about 2,165 metres (7,100 feet). It flows through Kerala, passing the Silent Valley National Park, before re-entering Tamil Nadu.
- The Bhavani River is 217 km long and joins the Cauvery River at Bhavani town, near the Bhavani Sangameshwarar Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage centre.
- It is a perennial river with a drainage basin of nearly 6,200 sq. km., extending across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka.
- Around 90% of the river’s water is utilised for agriculture, making it a vital source of irrigation.
- Its principal tributaries are the West Varagar and East Varagar rivers, both originating in the Nilgiri Hills.
- Major dams built across the river include the Bhavani Sagar Dam and the Kodiveri Dam.
FAQs
Q1. Why is the Bhavani River in the news?
Ans: Large stretches of the Bhavani River near Kooduthurai have been covered by water hyacinth, an invasive alien aquatic weed that threatens the river ecosystem.
Q2. Where does the Bhavani River originate?
Ans: The Bhavani River originates in the Western Ghats, in the Nilgiri Hills of Tiruppur district, Tamil Nadu, at an elevation of about 2,165 metres (7,100 feet).
Q3. Through which states does the Bhavani River flow?
Ans: The river flows through Tamil Nadu and Kerala, while its drainage basin extends into parts of Karnataka.
Q4. Where does the Bhavani River join the Cauvery River?
Ans: The Bhavani River merges with the Cauvery River at Bhavani town near the Bhavani Sangameshwarar Temple in Tamil Nadu.
Q5. Why is the Bhavani River important?
Ans: The river is an important source of irrigation, supports rich biodiversity, and holds religious significance. Nearly 90% of its water is utilised for agriculture.
Q6. What are the major tributaries of the Bhavani River?
Ans: The West Varagar and East Varagar rivers are the principal tributaries of the Bhavani River, both originating from the Nilgiri Hills.
Q7. Which major dams are built on the Bhavani River?
Ans: The Bhavani Sagar Dam and the Kodiveri Dam are the two major dams constructed across the Bhavani River.
