SARAYU RIVER: GEOGRAPHY

SARAYU RIVER: GEOGRAPHY

News - Efforts to drain an artificial lake formed on the Sarayu River have failed for the second consecutive day, posing a significant threat.

What's in the news?

• The Sarayu River is facing a crisis due to an artificial lake that remains undrained.
• The artificial lake poses a significant risk, with efforts to address the issue being unsuccessful for two days.

Key Points

Sarayu River:

Ø  Originates from Lake Mansarovar in the Himalayas.

Ø  Also known as Ghaghra and Manas Nandini.

Ø  Largest tributary of the Sharda River.

Ø  Length: 350 km.

Ø  Flows through Uttarakhand and merges into the Sharda River at Pancheshwar (India-Nepal border).

Ø  Major cities: Kapkot, Bageshwar, Seraghat, and Ayodhya.

Ø  Revered in Hindu scriptures; important for spiritual rituals.Source

Sharda River:

v  Also called Kali River and Mahakali River.

v  Originates at Kalapani, Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand.

v  Joins Ghaghra River, a tributary of the Ganga.

v  Known as Sharda River in the T/erai plains.

Threats:

·         Sarayu River has narrowed from 1.5 km to 30-40 meters due to pollution and the Pancheshwar dam.

·         Pollution from industries, sewage, and hazardous wastes deteriorates water quality.

·         CPCB 2016 report:  Faecal coliform levels exceed the standard limit