Question

Give geographical reasons for the following
Most of the Himalayan rivers are perennial in nature.

Hint:

Brazil lies near equator and south of hurricane belt.

Answer 1

Step 1: Perennial Rivers

A perennial river is one that flows continuously throughout the year. Himalayan rivers such as the Ganga, Yamuna, and Brahmaputra are perennial because their discharge is sustained by multiple sources, ensuring a steady flow even during dry seasons.

Term note: “Perennial discharge” means that the river has water all year round, though the flow volume may vary seasonally — it never runs completely dry.

Step 2: Sources of Water

Himalayan rivers are fed by a combination of glaciers, snowmelt, and rainfall. In summer, melting glaciers and snow from the high Himalayas maintain their flow. During the monsoon season, heavy rainfall further increases their volume, while in the dry season, baseflow from groundwater in the alluvial plains keeps the rivers running.

Extra point: Groundwater seepage from alluvium sustains lean-season runoff, preventing the rivers from drying up.

Step 3: Importance of Perennial Rivers

These rivers are crucial for agriculture, drinking water, transportation, and hydroelectric power generation. Because they provide a reliable and consistent water supply, they support dense populations and fertile river valleys. However, management challenges such as flooding during monsoons and sediment accumulation must be addressed to maintain long-term benefits.

\[ \textbf{Himalayan rivers are perennial because they are fed by glaciers, snowmelt, and rainfall throughout the year.} \]