The Brahmaputra River System is one of the biggest and most important river systems in Asia. It begins in Tibet and flows through India and Bangladesh before joining the Bay of Bengal. This river is not only important for people and agriculture but also plays a major role in transport, electricity and wildlife. Let us understand this river in detail.
Origin of the Brahmaputra River
The Brahmaputra River starts from Mansarovar Lake, near Mount Kailash in Tibet. In Tibet, it is called Tsangpo. It enters India through Arunachal Pradesh and then flow through Assam. After that, it enters Bangladesh, where it is called Jamuna, before merging with the Bay of Bengal.
Length and Route of the River
The Brahmaputra River is about 2,900 km long. It flows through three countries – China (Tibet), India and Bangladesh. In India, it flows through Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and parts of Meghalaya. It finally joins the Ganga River and flows into the Bay of Bengal.
Importance of the Brahmaputra River
The Brahmaputra River is very important for agriculture, as it gives water to farmers for growing crops. It is also useful for transportation, as boats and ships travel on the river to carry goods and passengers. Hydroelectric dams built on the river help in generating electricity. The river also supports wildlife, including rare animals like the one-horned rhinoceros and the Gangetic dolphin. In addition, it has religious and cultural importance for many people living near its banks.
Important Tributaries of the Brahmaputra River
North Bank Tributaries:
- Subansiri River
- Kameng (Jia Bharali)
- Siang (Dihang)
- Dibang River
- Lohit River
- Manas River
- Puthimari
- Champamati
- Jinjiram
South Bank Tributaries:
- Dhansiri
- Digaru
- Kulsi
- Krishna
- Dudhnai
Hydroelectric Projects on Brahmaputra
Many dams have been built on this river and its tributaries for generating electricity. Some important ones are:
- Zangmu Dam (Tibet)
- Lower Subansiri Dam (India)
- Teesta-V Dam (India)
- Tala Hydroelectric Project (Bhutan)
These dams help in producing power and managing floods.
Environmental and Ecological Significance
The Brahmaputra River supports many forests, wetlands and grasslands. It is home to:
- Bengal Tigers
- Gangetic Dolphins
- Asian Elephants
The river also brings fertile soil which helps in growing crops. It is one of the most biodiverse areas in India.
Strategic and Cultural Importance of Brahmaputra River
The river flows through three countries. It is important for international relations, especially between India and China. Also, the river is considered holy by many people and has deep cultural value.