Narmada River System, Tributaries, Origin, Length

The Narmada River, also called the Reva, is the fifth longest river in India and the longest west-flowing river in the country. It is also the largest river in Madhya Pradesh. Flowing through the states of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, the Narmada, along with the Tapti River, is one of the only two major rivers in peninsular India that flow from east to west. It traverses a rift valley situated between the Satpura and Vindhya mountain ranges.

Narmada River System Origin

The Narmada River is the largest west-flowing river in peninsular India. Originating from the Maikala range near Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh at an elevation of approximately 1,057 meters, it flows westward through a rift valley formed between the Vindhya Range to the north and the Satpura Range to the south. The river spans a total length of 1,310 kilometers before emptying into the Gulf of Khambhat.

Narmada River System Map

The Narmada River System Map offers a detailed geographical overview of one of India’s most significant west-flowing rivers. Originating from Central India, the Narmada River forms a natural boundary between North and South India and plays a crucial role in the socio-economic and ecological landscape of the region.

Narmada River System Tributaries

The Narmada River has several important tributaries on both its right and left banks. These tributaries contribute to the river’s flow, aiding in irrigation, hydropower generation, and ecological balance. Among these, the Tawa River is the largest left-bank tributary and is crucial for irrigation and water supply in Madhya Pradesh. The Orsang River, a right-bank tributary, plays a significant role in Gujarat. These tributaries collectively support the Narmada River in sustaining agriculture, hydroelectric projects, and local biodiversity.

Right Bank Tributaries

1. Barna River
2. Hiran River
3. Tendoni River
4. Choral River
5. Kolar River
6. Man River
7. Uri River
8. Hatni River
9. Orsang River

Left Bank Tributaries

1. Buehner River
2. Banjar River
3. Sher River
4. Shakkar River
5. Dudhi River
6. Tawa River (largest left-bank tributary)
7. Ganjal River
8. Chhota Tawa River
9. Kaveri River
10. Kundi River
11. Goi River
12. Karjan River

Narmada River Basin

1. The Narmada River Basin covers an area of approximately 98,796 square kilometers, accounting for about 3% of India’s total geographical area. 
2. It originates from Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh and flows westward for 1,310 kilometers before draining into the Arabian Sea. 
3. The basin is bordered by the Vindhya Range in the north, the Maikala Range in the east, the Satpura Range in the south, and the Arabian Sea in the west. 
4. It spans across Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and small portions of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh. 
5. The upper reaches of the basin are mountainous, while the middle and lower regions consist of broad, fertile plains that are well-suited for agriculture. 
6. The river plays a crucial role in supporting irrigation, drinking water supply, and industrial activities. Unlike most Indian rivers, the Narmada does not form a delta but an estuary due to its flow through a rift valley. 
7. Major hydropower projects on the river include the Sardar Sarovar Dam, Indira Sagar Dam, and Omkareshwar Dam. 
8. The river is also famous for natural attractions such as the Dhuandhar Falls and the Marble Rocks near Jabalpur.

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