Discuss the significant difference between the Himalayan and Peninsular rivers.

Solution

Himalayan Rivers	Rivers of the Peninsula
(i)Most of the Himalayan rivers are perennial. It means that they have water throughout the year	(i)A large number of the Peninsular rivers are seasonal, as their flow is dependent on rainfall.
(ii)These rivers do not have any waterfalls. Hence these are not useful for generation of water power.	(ii)These rivers make waterfalls and cataracts on the plateau. Hence these are useful for hydro-electric projects.
(iii)The Himalayan rivers have large basins and extensive catchment areas. Therefore these have a large volume of water.	(iv)The peninsular rivers have small basins and small catchment areas. Therefore these do not have a large volume of water.
(iv)These rivers flow over plains, therefore these are useful for irrigation and navigation.	(iv)These rivers flow on rocky areas and are not used for irrigation and navigation.
(v)These rivers pass through deep gorges and before entering the plains and have meandering courses on plains.	(v)These rivers flow through shallow river valley have straight courses.
(vi)These rivers form vast alluvial plains by depositing sediments.	(vi)These rivers do not bring fertile alluvium and do not form alluvial plains.