Mahadayi (Mhadei/Mandovi) River

·         Origin: Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka, in the Western Ghats.

• States: Flows through Karnataka and Goa; its basin also extends into Maharashtra.
• Goa: Known as Mandovi River.
• Outfall: Drains into the Arabian Sea.
• Tributaries: Kalsa and Banduri are important tributaries.
• Water dispute: Mainly involves Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra.
• Karnataka project: Kalsa-Banduri Nala Project seeks to divert water towards the Malaprabha basin.
• Tribunal: Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal was constituted in 2010; final award was given in 2018.
• Ecological importance: The river and its basin are associated with the Western Ghats, an important biodiversity region.
• Protected area: Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Goa, while Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary lies in the source region in Karnataka.

Prelims Question | English

Q. With reference to the Mahadayi River, consider the following statements:

1. It originates in the Western Ghats of Karnataka.
2. In Goa, it is known as the Mandovi River.
3. It ultimately drains into the Arabian Sea.
4. Kalsa and Banduri are associated with the Mahadayi river system.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 3 only
C. 2, 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Explanation

• Statement 1 — Correct: Mahadayi originates in the Western Ghats of Karnataka.
• Statement 2 — Correct: After entering Goa, it is commonly known as the Mandovi.
• Statement 3 — Correct: It is a west-flowing river and drains into the Arabian Sea.
• Statement 4 — Correct: Kalsa and Banduri are associated with the Mahadayi water-diversion dispute.