gs1medium

The Narmada River flows to the west, while most other large peninsular rivers flow to the east. Why?

  1. 1.It occupies a linear rift valley.
  2. 2.It flows between the Vindhyas and the Satpuras.
  3. 3.The land slopes to the west from Central India.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  1. A.1 only
  2. B.2 and 3 only
  3. C.1 and 3 only
  4. D.None
▶ Answer & Explanation

Correct answer: A. 1 only

The Narmada River's westward flow is primarily due to its origin in a rift valley. This geological feature, bounded by the Vindhya and Satpura ranges, has a westward tilt. Consequently, the river follows this depression, draining into the Arabian Sea, unlike most other major peninsular rivers which follow the eastward slope of the Deccan Plateau towards the Bay of Bengal.

Source: UPSC gs1 2013

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