Main rivers in Maharashtra
Here are the top rivers in Maharashtra.
1. Godavari River:
The lifeline of Maharashtra, the Godavari River, flows gracefully through the state, bestowing fertility upon vast tracts of land. Revered as the Ganga of the South, the Godavari nurtures countless villages and towns, and its waters sustain agriculture, industries, and spiritual practices. The dams like the Jayakwadi Dam and the Gangapur Dam are testimony to its importance in irrigation and water management.
2. Krishna and Koyna River:
Originating in the Western Ghats, the Krishna River meanders through Maharashtra's diverse landscapes, irrigating agricultural fields and supporting livelihoods. Koyna waters are harnessed by dams like the Koyna Dam for hydropower and irrigation, contributing to the state's development.
3. Tapi River:
The Tapi River flows gracefully through the northern part of Maharashtra, enriching the regions it touches. Its waters are utilized by dams such as the Ukai Dam in Gujarat, which helps regulate its flow and provide water for irrigation.
4. Mula-Mutha River:
The Mula and Mutha rivers embrace Pune, Maharashtra's cultural capital. While Mula gently flows through rural landscapes, Mutha winds its way through the city, reflecting Pune's past and present. The Khadakwasla Dam and the Panshet Dam are crucial reservoirs on these rivers that provide drinking water and regulate flow.
5. Wardha River:
Originating in the state's heartland, the Wardha River flows through Maharashtra before merging with the Wainganga River to form the mighty Pranhita River. The Upper Wardha Dam and the Lower Wardha Dam contribute to flood control and irrigation.
6. Pravara River:
Flowing through the enchanting Bhandardara region, the Pravara River graces Maharashtra with its beauty and resources. It embraces the Bhandardara Dam, a historic structure that has stood the test of time.
7. Panchganga River:
The Panchganga River, originating in the Sahyadri mountains, weaves through Kolhapur, earning its name from the confluence of five rivers. The Radhanagari Dam on the river is essential for irrigation and providing drinking water.
8. Penganga River:
The Penganga River flows through Vidarbha, providing a lifeline to towns and villages. The Penganga Dam serves as a multipurpose reservoir, aiding irrigation and water supply.
9. Wainganga River:
With its origins in the Satpura Range, the Wainganga River traverses through Maharashtra's landscapes, nurturing the region's flora and fauna. The Gosikhurd Dam is a significant reservoir on the river, contributing to irrigation and flood control.
10. Manjara River:
The Manjara River flows through the Marathwada region, supporting agriculture and rural livelihoods. Its waters are harnessed for irrigation through projects like the Majalgaon Dam.
11. Bhima River (also called as Chandrabhaga in Pandharpur):
Originating in the Bhimashankar hills in the Western Ghats, the Bhima River meanders its way through Maharashtra, coursing through districts such as Pune, Solapur, and Osmanabad. It merges with the Krishna River in Karnataka, becoming a tributary that contributes to the vast riverine system.