Rivers of Bihar

Learning Outcome

● Collects and interprets multiple sources of information (primary and

secondary) to understand the historical, cultural, geographical and socio-
political aspects of human life.
● Explains key natural phenomena of rivers of Bihar such as the flow of
rivers and how they are spatially distributed.
● Identifies the distribution of water resources in Bihar.
● Represents and analyses data related to various aspects of human life
given in the form of text, tables, charts, diagrams, and maps
Anshu was going to her maternal Grandparents with her parents by train. She
saw the train crossing over a river from the window. She was surprised to see
the river and its huge water body. She asked her father surprisingly, “Papa, what
is the name of this river?” Her father told this is Ganga River and it comes from
Himalaya region. She again asked, “How many rivers are in our state? Where
does this water body come from and where does it go? What happen to its
water?” Now her mother says, “Lets go on the tour of the rivers of our state.”
Rivers of Bihar
Rivers are streams of water. It flows downwards in channels from higher
areas like hills and mountains to lower areas like seas. It carries a huge water
body and sand particles with its flow. Most of the rain that falls on the land
surface ultimately reaches the river and flows down to the sea. River system in
Bihar is the main source of surface water other than rain water.
These rivers form a vital network of waterways that have shaped the
geographical, cultural and economic landscape of the region for millennia. The
rivers crisscross the state and make it fertile land of eastern India. These also
provide the various options for livelihood and occupations. Each river plays a
unique role in the life of the state's inhabitants.
 Activity:-

Make a list of rivers of

Bihar and identifies the
regions/district in which
they flow and write it
besides their names.

The Ganga River system

The Ganga is a snow fed and major river of Bihar and the whole Indian
subcontinent.It divides the state in almost two equal halves i.e. North and
South Bihar. The river has its source at Gaumakh in the southern Himalayan
Glaciers on the Indian side of the Tibetan border. It crosses the cities: Gangotri,
Haridwar, Kanpur, Allahabad, Varanasi, Ghazipur in UP and enters in the
boundary of Bihar at Chausa, near Buxar after its confluence with Karmanasa.
It is joined by the three great effluents - the Ghaghra, the Gandak, and the Son
and their tributaries in patna district. Further Punpun joins it at Fatuha in Patna
district, Koshi joins it at khagaria district while Harohar and Kiul join it near
Surajgarha, Distrct - Lakhisarai. It passes through the cities & towns- Patna,
Barh, Mokama, Begusarai, Munger, Khagaria, Bhagalpur, Kahalgaon, Pirpainti,
in Bihar and exit to Sahebganj in Jharkhand and then to West Bengal, where
the river begins with the branching away. One branch of the river goes on to
form the River Hooghly in West Bengal. Close to the border with Bangladesh,
the other enters Bangladesh and the branch of the Ganges is known as Padma
and ultimately all meet to the sea in Bay of Bengal.
The Ganges river basin is one of the most fertile and densely populated in
the world. There are two major dams on the Ganga. One at Haridwar in UP and
the other dam is at Farakka in West Bengal.
The Species found in the river are mainly fish and dolphins. Fish are found in
all the major rivers of the Ganges basin and are a vital food source for many
people. Many types of birds are found throughout the basin, such as myna,
parrots, crows and partridges. The Ganges River itself supports the mugger
crocodile and the gharial. The river's most famed fauna is the freshwater
dolphin and the Ganges River dolphin has been recently declared by the
central Govt. as India's National Aquatic Animal.

Tributaries of Ganga River

The tributaries are the rivers that originate from other sources and join
the main river later on. A tributary is a small stream that flows into a larger
body of water, such as a river or lake. Tributaries can be found in many regions
around the world and play an important role in the natural environment. They
are often home to unique plants and animals and provide habitats for fish and
other aquatic life. Tributaries are formed by precipitation, snowmelt and water
runoff. The tributaries of River Ganga are as follows.
Ghaghara
Ghaghara is a perennial trans-boundary river, originating from the Tibetan
Plateau near Lake Mansarovar in Nepal. It is a major left bank and largest
tributary of the Ganges. After meeting with tributaries in Uttar Pradesh it
enters into Bihar near Guthani of Siwan district and joins Ganga at Revilganj
(Chapra) in district Saran. It carries more water than the Ganges before its
confluence. Towns of Ghaghra River catchment area are Siwan, Saran (Chapra)
and Sonepur in Bihar.
Gandak
The Gandak river originates from melting of snow, glaciers and from lakes of
Himalayan streams in Nepal and its border with Tibet, which contribute
substantially to the lean season flows of the river. It is one of the major left
bank tributaries of the Ganga and also known as the Narayani, specialy in
Nepal. It enters into Bihar at the Indo-Nepal border Triveni (in Nepal) and
Valmikinagar in Bagha sub division of District- West Champaran, Bihar. The
Gandak flows through West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Saran,
Muzaffarpur and Vaishali districts. It joins the Ganges near Patna just
downstream with one of river bank at near Kaunhara Ghat, Hajipur, District-
Vaishali and the another at near Hariharnath Mandir, Sonepur, District-Saran.
Sone
The Sone originates from the hills of Madhya Pradesh near Amarkantak. Its
main tributaries are Rihand (Uttar Pradesh) and North Koel, Palamu District,
Jharkhand. It also receives over flow of Bansagar Dam, Dist-Rewa, Madhaya
Pradesh. After flowing through the states Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and
Jharkhand it enters to Bihar, near south of District - Kaimur. It passes through
Aurangabad, Dehri – on - son, Rohtas, Daudnagar (Jehanabad), Koilwer and
rural areas of Patna district and finally joins the Ganges downstream of Chapra,
nearby Doriganj, District - Saran. The Sone has a steep gradient with quick run-
off and ephemeral regimes, becoming a roaring river with the rain-waters in
the catchment area but turning quickly into a fordable stream. The Sone, being
wide and shallow, leaves disconnected pools of water in the remaining part of
the year.
Punpun
The Punpun River is a tributary of the Ganges. It originates in Palamu district of
Jharkhand and flows through Chatra (Jharkhand), Aurangabad, Gaya and Patna
districts of Bihar. The river joins the Ganges at Fatuha, 25 km downstream of
Patna. The river is mostly rain fed and carries little water in the dry season,
however, during rains the Punpun often causes heavy flooding in the patna
area.
Kosi
The Kosi is a trans-boundary river flowing through Nepal and India. In Nepal
it emerges from the mountains with other tributaries and becomes the Koshi.
After flowing through Birat nagar & other places in Nepal it enters into Bihar
near Bhimnagar, district Supaul and after flowing approx 260 km joins the
Ganges near Kursela, district Katihar.
It is a river of unstable nature and shifts its course frequently. The river,
which flowed near Purnea in the earlier, now flows west of Saharsa. Its
unstable nature has been attributed to the heavy silt carried during the
monsoon season. Koshi has been the main responsible river for extreme
flooding in Bihar. For this reason, the Koshi River is known as “The Sorrow of
Bihar '' as it has been causing huge damage to lives and property through
flooding and very frequent changes in course. The worst flood affected districts
are Supaul, Araria, Saharsa, Madhepura, Purnea, Katihar, parts of Khagaria and
northern parts of Bhagalpur, as well as adjoining regions of Nepal also.
Bagmati
The Bagmati originates from Shivapuri Hills about a few kms from
Kathmandu in Nepal. It is a rain fed river and passes the center of Kathmandu,
Tarai then enters into India near Dheng, district Sitamarhi, Bihar. It flows across
Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga districts. Main tributaries of
this river are Manusmar, Lakhandei and KamlaBalan.It finally joins
BudhiGandak near Hayaghat, District-Darbhanga. This river is also causing
floods in northern Bihar which results in damage of lives and property.
Budhi Gandak
The Budhi Gandak originates from Chautarwa Chaur near Bisambharpur,
West Champaran, Bihar. It is a rain fed river and flows through West
Champaran, East Champaran, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Begusarai and
ultimately flows in to the Ganges in Khagaria. This river was initially known as
Sikrahana River upto Lalbagia Ghat, East Champaran. From its downward
journey it is known as Budhi Gandak. The main tributaries of this river are
Ramrekha, Harboura, Kohra, Sirisia and Bagmati.
Mahananda
Mahananda River is one of the tributaries of the Ganga. The origin of this
mighty Mahananda River is hills of Darjeeling, West Bengal.The Mahananda
River flows through siliguri, then enters to Thakurganj,District-Kishanganj,Bihar
and flows through the fertile agricultural area of Purnea & Katihar and then
leaves to West Bengal.The Mahananda River is mainly rain fed in the monsoon
and floodalso occurby this river. It has a low water level during the summer or
winter.
The historical Importance of Rivers of Bihar
The rivers of Bihar have played a crucial role in the historical, cultural and
economic development of the region. The rivers, particularly the Ganges,
served as important trade routes in ancient times. Bihar was a part of the
historical trade routes, and the rivers facilitated the transportation of goods
and people. The flourishing trade contributed to the economic prosperity of
the region. The fertile plains along the banks of rivers such as the Ganges,
Gandak, and Kosi have supported agriculture for centuries. The rivers provided
water for irrigation, making the land fertile and suitable for cultivation. The
availability of water from these rivers has been crucial for the agricultural
practices in the region.
Ancient and medieval civilizations flourished along the banks of these rivers.
The availability of water, fertile soil, and strategic location attracted
settlements and led to the establishment of cities and towns. Patna, for
example, has a long history of human habitation along the Ganges. The rivers
of Bihar, especially the Ganges, hold immense cultural and religious
importance. The Ganges is considered sacred in Hinduism, and many religious
ceremonies and rituals are performed along its banks. Pilgrims from various
parts of India visit the ghats (steps leading to the river) in cities like Varanasi
and Patna for religious activities.
While the rivers have been a source of prosperity, they have also posed
challenges, especially in the case of the Kosi River. The periodic floods caused
by the Kosi earned it the nickname "Sorrow of Bihar." The historical struggle to
manage and control floods has shaped the region's history and influenced the
development of infrastructure. Some historical events and battles took place
along the rivers of Bihar like the Battle of Ghaghra fought in 1529 between
Babur and Afghans, the Battle of Buxar was fought in 1764 between East India
company and the combined force of the Mughal Emperor and the Nawabs of
Bengal and Awadh. The strategic importance of riverbanks often made them
sites for conflicts and the establishment of forts and defensive structures.
The Cultural and Religious Practices along the Rivers in Bihar
The rivers of Bihar hold immense cultural importance, deeply ingrained in the
traditions, rituals, and daily life of the people.
The rivers of Bihar, especially the Ganges, hold profound religious
significance for Hindus. The Ganges is worshiped as a goddess and is believed
to purify the soul and grant salvation. Pilgrims from all over India visit the ghats
(steps leading to the river) in cities like Patna, Varanasi, and Bhagalpur to
perform rituals, offer prayers known as Ganga Arti and take holy dips in the
sacred waters on different occasion like Kartik Purnima, Mauni Amawashya,
Makar Sankranti etc.

Activity

Prepare a short note on Different occasion or Practice been done besides the river in your area?

Rivers are integral to various festivals and

celebrations in Bihar. During festivals like Chhath
Puja, which is dedicated to the worship of the
Sun God, devotees gather along the riverbanks
to offer prayers and make offerings to the rising
and setting sun. The riverside becomes a hub of
cultural activities, songs, and communal
gatherings during such festivals. The banks of rivers in Bihar are adorned with
ancient temples, shrines, and
historical monuments, reflecting the
rich cultural heritage of the region.
Cities like Patna, Bodh Gaya, and
Vaishali are home to numerous
religious sites and historical
landmarks situated along the
riverbanks, attracting tourists and
pilgrims from far and wide.
Rivers have inspired a rich tradition of literature, poetry, and folklore in
Bihar. The rivers often feature prominently in folk songs, ballads, and oral
narratives, celebrating their beauty, power, and mystique. Many legends and
myths are associated with the rivers, passed down through generations as part
of the region's cultural heritage. Water is considered sacred in Hinduism, and
rituals related to birth, marriage, and death often involve the use of water
from the rivers. The belief in the purifying properties of river water is deeply
entrenched in the cultural fabric of Bihar, influencing various aspects of daily
life and religious observance.
The economical activity on the bank of rivers in Bihar
The rivers of Bihar have significant economic importance, contributing to
various sectors of the state's economy. The fertile alluvial plains along the
banks of rivers such as the Ganges, Gandak, and Kosi are highly conducive to
agriculture. These rivers provide water for irrigation, making the land suitable
for cultivating a variety of crops. Agriculture is a primary source of livelihood
for a large portion of
Bihar's population, and
the rivers play a vital role
in sustaining agricultural
productivity.
Several rivers in
Bihar have the potential
for hydropower
generation. The flow of
water in rivers like the
Kosi, Gandak, and Sone
 can be harnessed to generate
electricity through hydroelectric
power projects. The
development of hydropower
infrastructure can contribute to
Bihar's energy needs and
support industrial growth in the
state. Rivers support a thriving
fishing industry in Bihar,
providing livelihoods to
thousands of fishermen and
Hydel Power project on Sone River their families. The rivers are
home to a diverse range of fish
species, and fishing activities contribute to both local consumption and
commercial trade. Sustainable management of fisheries can further boost
economic opportunities in the sector.

Questions:-
1. Describe the economic activities going on in your area besides the
river Bank.
2. Why river banks are suitable for agriculture? Explain your own
perspective.

The rivers of Bihar serve as natural waterways, facilitating inland water

transportation. Cargo movement via rivers reduces transportation costs and
provides an alternative
mode of transport for
goods. Improving
infrastructure for
inland water transport
can enhance
connectivity within
Bihar and with
neighboring states,
promoting trade and
economic development. The scenic beauty and cultural heritage associated
with rivers attract tourists to Bihar. River cruises, water sports, and
recreational activities along riverbanks contribute to tourism revenue. The
development of tourist infrastructure and promotion of river-based tourism
can create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the
hospitality sector.
Rivers are a vital source of water for domestic, industrial, and
agricultural use in Bihar. They serve as a primary source of drinking water for
urban and rural communities, supporting public health and sanitation. Efficient
management of water resources is essential to meet the growing demand for
water and ensure sustainable development in the state.

References

● https://ncert.nic.in/pdf/NCFSE-2023-August_2023.pdf
● https://geography4u.com/rivers-of-bihar/amp/
● https://bhenvis.nic.in/water_resources.html
● https://www.bshpcltd.com/