Reincarnating Raipur
Nestled in the heart of India, the state of Chhattisgarh is blessed with a network of majestic rivers, which play a vital role in shaping the state’s landscape, culture, and economy. These waterways, originating from the verdant hills and forests, have served as lifelines for generations of inhabitants, providing sustenance, irrigation, transportation, and fostering a vibrant ecosystem. Let us explores the significance of the rivers of Chhattisgarh and their impact on the lives of its people.
Mahanadi
The Mahanadi River, often referred to as the “Mighty Mother,” is the lifeline of Chhattisgarh. Originating in the Sihawa hills of Dhamtari district, this majestic river traverses across the central region, passing through Raipur, Durg, and Bilaspur districts before exiting the state. The river’s wide span and strong currents make it ideal for hydropower projects and facilitate inland water transport. Apart from its industrial importance, the Mahanadi sustains agriculture and fishing activities, supporting the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and fishermen in its basin. Furthermore, the river’s contribution to the ecological balance and biodiversity cannot be understated, making it an integral part of Chhattisgarh’s natural heritage.
Indravati
Flowing through the southern reaches of Chhattisgarh, the Indravati River, also known as the Nila River, graces the lush landscapes of the Bastar district. It showcases nature’s splendor with its meandering path through dense forests and hilly terrain, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and ecotourism. The Indravati River is a crucial tributary of the Godavari River and supports an array of wildlife, including endangered species like the Bastar hill myna and the Indravati tiger. Its pristine waters contribute significantly to agriculture, providing fertile soils and irrigation to the surrounding regions.
Godavari
While only forming the eastern boundary of Chhattisgarh, the Godavari River’s presence is felt profoundly in the state’s cultural and historical fabric. The river enters Chhattisgarh near Jagdalpur in Bastar district. Regarded as one of India’s sacred rivers, the Godavari holds great religious significance for the people, fostering spiritual devotion and rituals.
Shivnath
The origin of this river is in the 624-meter-high Panabaras hill of Ambagarh tehsil of Rajnandgaon district. This river flows towards the north for a distance of 40 km from the point of origin and merges with the Mahanadi near Shivrinarayan, flowing towards the east of the district border. Shivnath River forms a catchment area of 384 sq km in the Rajnandgaon district and 22484 sq km in the Durg district. Its major tributaries are Haf, Agar, Maniyari, Arpa, Lilagar, Kharkhara, Kharoon, Jamuna etc.
Hasdeo
The Hasdeo River, a tributary of the Mahanadi, flows through the coal-rich regions of Korba district. The river’s significance lies in its contribution to the industrial and economic development of Chhattisgarh. It serves as a crucial water source for thermal power plants and other industries, driving the state’s progress and infrastructure.
Arpa
The Arpa River originates from the hills of the Pendra Plateau. It is a tributary of Mahanadi. It flows in Bilaspur tehsil and joins the Shivnath river at Thakur Deva near Bartori. Its length is 147 km.
Pairi
Pairi River is a tributary of Mahanadi, Originating from Bhatrigarh Hill, Tehsil Bindranwagarh, District Gariaband, Mahanadi joins Rajim. Its main tributary is Sondhur. Sikasar Project (1995) on Pari River and Sondhur Project (1979-80) on Sondhur River are operational. Its length is 90 kilometers and the flow area is 3,000 square meters.
Kharun
The Kharun River, originating from the Maikal Hills, flows through the capital city, Raipur. It is often considered the symbol of resilience as it has managed to withstand the pressures of urbanization and still provides sustenance to the region. The river supports agriculture and helps maintain the city’s ecological balance.
Kanhar
This river originates from a hill named Bakhona of Khudia Plateau situated in the northwestern part of the Bilaspur district. Its origin point is 1012 meters high. Flowing north from here, it forms the 60-meter-high Kothri Falls in Samri Tehsil. After this, it joins the Son River on the border of Shahdol and Satna districts. This river forms a drainage area of 3030 sq km in Surguja district. Sindoor Galphula, Dataram, Pengan, etc. are its main tributaries.
Shabri
Its origin is the Bailadila hill near Dantewada, flowing in the south-eastern border of Bastar, it joins the Godavari near Kunavaram in Andhra Pradesh. It flows in the Bastar district for a length of 150 km. Which creates 5680 km of drainage area.
