Drainage System of Odisha

Odisha is home to numerous rivers that serve as lifelines for its people and ecosystems. These rivers not only act as drainage channels for surface water but also significantly contribute to the state’s economy. Major rivers in Odisha include the Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani, Subarnarekha, Budhabalanga, Rushikulya, Vamsadhara, and Indravati, among others. In addition to its rivers, Odisha boasts a wealth of lakes, waterfalls, and springs, enriching its natural beauty and resources.

The rivers in Odisha are predominantly Peninsular and non-perennial, as they rely on rainfall for their flow. These water bodies play a crucial role in the state’s development, providing essential resources for irrigation and generating hydroelectric power.

Rivers of Odisha

Odisha is home to several significant rivers, most of which flow into the Bay of Bengal. These rivers are categorized into six groups based on their sources or origins:

1. Chota Nagpur Plateau
   • Subarnarekha River
   • Brahmani River
2. Amarkantak Plateau
   • Mahanadi River
3. Mahanadi Delta
   • Soamoli River
   • Gobari River
   • Prachi River
   • Kadua River
   • Dhanua River
   • Ratnachira River
   • Nuna River
4. Keonjhar Plateau
   • Baitarani River
5. Eastern Slopes of Eastern Ghats
   • Budhabalanga River
   • Rushikulya River
   • Salandi River
6. Other Rivers from Eastern Ghats
   • Bahuda River
   • Nagavali River
   • Vamsadhara River
   • Rivers of the Godavari System

1. Rivers of Chota Nagpur Plateau

Subarnarekha River

• Origin: Southern slopes of the Chota Nagpur Plateau in Bihar.
• Length: Total length is 433 km, with about 70 km in Odisha.
• Catchment Area: Total area is 19,500 sq km; in Odisha, it is 3,200 sq km.
• Flow Path: A multi-state river passing through Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal.
  • Forms the Odisha–West Bengal boundary and enters Odisha at Lakshmannath near Jaleshwar.
  • Flows through Mayurbhanj and Balasore districts before draining into the Bay of Bengal.
• Tributaries:
  • Right Bank: Kanchi, Karkari, Kharkai (longest), Raru, Garru.
  • Left Bank: Dulang.

Brahmani River

• Origin: Southern slopes of Chota Nagpur Plateau in Bihar, entering Odisha via Sundargarh district.
• Length: Total length is 799 km, with 480 km in Odisha.
• Catchment Area: 39,055 sq km in Odisha.
• Significance: Second largest river in Odisha.
  • Formed by the confluence of Sankh (right bank) and Koel (left bank) at Vedvyasa, near Rourkela.
• Flow Path:
  • Forms a minor gorge at Rengali.
  • Flows North-South from Rourkela to Talcher, serving irrigation and hydel power needs south of Barkot.
  • Passes through Sundargarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Deogarh, Jajapur, Kendrapara, and Cuttack districts.
• Tributaries:
  • Right Bank: Gohira, Lingarajara, Tikra, Singda, Nandia.
  • Left Bank: Ramial, Samakoi, Mankada, Kurali.
• Key Features:
  • Shares floodwaters with Mahanadi via Maipura and forms Wheeler Islands.
  • Receives flood spills from the Baitarani river before emptying into the Bay of Bengal near Dhamra.

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2. River of Amarkantak Plateau

Mahanadi River

• Origin: Amarkantak Hills of Bastar Plateau in Raipur, Chhattisgarh.
• Length: Total length is 858 km, with 494 km in Odisha.
• Catchment Area: 65,580 sq km in Odisha.
• Significance:
  • Largest river in Odisha and the sixth largest in India.
  • Known as the Sorrow of Odisha due to frequent flooding.
• Flow Path:
  • Enters Odisha at Padigan and flows through Sambalpur, Sonepur, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Subalaya, Kantilo, Boudh, and Banki.
  • Forms the Hirakud Dam, the world’s longest dam, near Sambalpur.
  • From Sambalpur to Sonepur, its course is North-South, meeting right-bank tributaries like Jira and Jhaun.
  • Tel, the largest tributary, joins at Sonepur.
  • Crosses Eastern Ghats at Satkosia Gorge, entering the plains near Naraj in Cuttack district.
  • Forms a distributary, Kathajodi, before creating a delta and draining into the Bay of Bengal near Jagatsinghpur.
• Tributaries:
  • Right Bank: Silari, Sondur, Jonk, Sukha, Kharkhara, Brutanga.
  • Left Bank: Chhinar, Seonath, Hasdeo, Son, Mand, Kelo, Surli, Bhidan.
  • Notable exceptions: Daya and Bhargavi rivers empty into Chilika Lake instead of the Bay of Bengal.

3. Rivers of the Mahanadi Delta

The Mahanadi Delta comprises numerous distributaries originating from the Mahanadi River. These rivers drain into the Bay of Bengal and contribute significantly to the region’s ecology and economy.

Rivers of the Mahanadi Delta

• Soamoli River: Originates from Hirapur village and flows into the Bay of Bengal.
• Gobari River: Begins at Devidola and is also known as the Gobardhana River.
• Prachi River: Starts from Kuakhai, flows through Phulnakhara, and drains the area between Kandal and Kushabhadra.
• Kadua River: Drains the interfluvial region between Prachi and Kushabhadra rivers.
• Dhanua River: A small river originating from Balipatna.
• Ratnachira River: Arises near Mukundapur village and drains into the Bhargavi River.
• Nuna River: Starts near Ghoradia Hills and merges with the Daya River near Sahupara.

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4. River of Keonjhar Plateau

Baitarani River

• Origin: Gonasika or Guptaganga Hills in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha.
• Length: 365 km.
• Catchment Area: 12,190 sq km.
• Flow Path:
  • Initially serves as a boundary between Odisha and Jharkhand.
  • Flows northward before turning 90° eastward.
  • Passes through Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Sundargarh, Bhadrak, Jajpur, and Kendrapara districts.
  • Joins Brahmani River at Dhamra in Bhadrak district and flows into the Bay of Bengal.
• Tributaries: Salandi, Matai, Kangira, Ardei, Khairi, Bhandan, Deo, Kanjhari, Sita, Musal, and Kusei Rivers.

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5. Rivers of Eastern Slopes of Eastern Ghats

Budhabalanga River

• Origin: Simlipal Massif, south of Simlipal Garh in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha.
• Length: 175 km.
• Catchment Area: 4,840 sq km.
• Flow Path:
  • Passes through Mayurbhanj and Balasore districts.
  • Important tributaries: Sanjo, Deo, Kalo, Sone, Palpala, Katra, Gangadhar.
  • Drains into the Bay of Bengal near Balasore, slightly north of Chandipur.

Rushikulya River

• Origin: Rushimal Mountain, Kandhamal district, Odisha.
• Length: 165 km.
• Catchment Area: 8,963 sq km.
• Flow Path:
  • Passes through Berhampur, Chhatrapur, Asika, Bhanjanagar, and Sarada in Ganjam district.
  • Drains into the Bay of Bengal through Chhatrapur Block.
  • Known as the lifeline of Ganjam district.
  • Features a pear-shaped basin with a dendritic tributary system.
• Tributaries:
  • Right Bank: Padma, Ghodahada.
  • Left Bank: Baghua, Dhanei.

Salandi River

• Origin: Southern slopes of the Simlipal Massif at Meghasani Mountain, Keonjhar district, Odisha.
• Length: 144 km.
• Catchment Area: 1,790 sq km.
• Flow Path:
  • Flows through Bhadrak district.
  • Tributary of the Baitarani River, merging a few kilometers upstream of Chandbali.
• Significance:
  • Supports irrigation through the Salandi Dam under the Salandi Project.

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6. Rivers of the Eastern Ghats

The Eastern Ghats in Odisha give rise to several important rivers, many of which eventually flow into the Bay of Bengal or join larger river systems.

Bahuda River

• Origin: Singharaj Hills, Gajapati district, Odisha.
• Length: 96 km.
• Flow Path:
  • Flows northeast for 55 km, southeast for 17 km within Odisha.
  • Enters Andhra Pradesh, flows 18 km, and reenters Odisha for another 6 km.
  • Empties into the Bay of Bengal near Sunapurapeta village.
• Tributaries: Poichandia, Bogiriadi, Batrada Nalla, Kantajura Nalla.

Nagavali River

• Origin: Eastern slopes of the Eastern Ghats near Lakhbahal, Kalahandi district, Odisha.
• Length: 256 km (161 km in Odisha).
• Catchment Area: 4,500 sq km in Odisha.
• Flow Path:
  • Passes through Vizianagaram and Srikakulam districts in Andhra Pradesh.
  • Drains into the Bay of Bengal near Mofaz Bandar.
• Tributaries:
  • Right Bank: Pitadar, Satnala, Barha, Srikona Nadi, Vegavati, Baldiya Nadi.
  • Left Bank: Jhanjavathi, Sitagurha, Gumudugedda, Vonigedda.

Vamsadhara River

• Origin: Niyamagiri Hills, Kalahandi district, Odisha.
• Length: 230 km (150 km in Odisha).
• Catchment Area: 8,960 sq km.
• Flow Path:
  • Passes through Paralakhemundi, Gunupur, Kashinagar, and Bissam Cuttack.
  • Drains into the Bay of Bengal at Kalingapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
• Tributaries:
  • Right Bank: Poladi, Bhangi, Pedagoda.
  • Left Bank: Badanalla, Chauladhua, Pandaka Nalla, Badajhar, Harbhangi, Sananadi, Mahendratanaya.

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Godavari River System

Indravati River

• Origin: Dandakaranya Range, Kalahandi district, Odisha.
• Length: 530 km (167 km in Odisha).
• Catchment Area: 7,400 sq km in Odisha.
• Flow Path:
  • Flows southeast and westward through Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, and Koraput districts.
  • Forms the boundary between Odisha and Chhattisgarh before entering Bastar district, Chhattisgarh.
• Tributaries:
  • Left Bank: Keshadhara Nalla, Kandabindha Nalla, Chandragiri Nalla, Golagar Nalla, Poragarh Nalla, Kapur Nalla, Muran River, Bangiri Nalla, Telengi Nalla.
  • Right Bank: Narangi Gudar, Nimbra, Kotri, Bhaskel, Bandia.

Kolab River

• Origin: Sinkaran Hills, Koraput district, Odisha.
• Length: 270 km (in Odisha).
• Catchment Area: 10,300 sq km in Odisha.
• Flow Path:
  • Houses the Upper Kolab Hydro Electric Project via the Kolab Dam.
  • Merges with the Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh.
• Tributaries: Karandi Nalla, Guradi Nalla, Kangar Nalla, Garia, Dharmageda Nalla, Jamnadi, Jalengar, Mulervagu Nalla, Potteru Vagu Nalla.

Machkund (Sileru) Rivers

• Origin: Eastern Ghats, northeastern Andhra Pradesh (as Machkund River).
• Flow Path:
  • Flows northward into the Jalaput Reservoir on the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border.
  • Renamed Sileru River downstream of the reservoir.
  • Turns southwest, flowing through southwestern Odisha before meeting the Sabari River at Motu, Odisha’s southernmost point.
• Significance:
  • Hydroelectric dams at Jalaput and other points along the Machkund and Sileru Rivers provide significant power.
  • Balimela Reservoir on the Sileru River also supports hydroelectric power generation.

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Lakes of Odisha

Odisha is home to both natural and artificial lakes, each with its unique characteristics and significance.

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Natural Lakes

1. Ansupa Lake
   • A freshwater lake shaped like a horseshoe, located at the foot of the Saranda Hills.
   • Situated on the left bank of the Mahanadi River, opposite Banki in Cuttack district.
   • Formed due to the meander shifting of the Mahanadi River.
   • Acts as a winter shelter for migratory birds.
   • Dimensions: 5 km long and 1.6 km wide.
   • Connected to the Mahanadi River via the Kabula Nalla channel, which serves as both an inlet and outlet for floodwaters.
2. Chilika Lake
   • Located on the eastern coast of India at the mouth of the Daya River.
   • The largest brackish water lagoon in Asia, covering 1,165 sq km during the monsoon and 900 sq km in summer.
   • Spans the districts of Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam.
   • Designated as India’s first Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 1981.
   • Declared a bird sanctuary in 1987 and is home to numerous islands like Nalaban, Kalijai, and Birds Island.
   • A major habitat for migratory birds from regions like the Caspian Sea, Lake Baikal, and Central Asia.
   • Connected to the Bay of Bengal through a 32 km channel called Muggermukh.
   • The deepest part is near Kalijai.
3. Kanjia Lake
   • A small freshwater lake covering about 0.75 sq km, located south of Barang in Khurda district.
   • Surrounded by flat hillocks, with the Botanical Garden to the north and Nandankanan Zoological Park to the south.
4. Pata Lake
   • A freshwater lake in Chhatarpur town, Ganjam district.
   • Dimensions: 4 km long and 500 m wide.
   • A prominent tourist attraction in Odisha.
5. Sara Lake
   • A freshwater lake located near Puri district.
   • Dimensions: 5 km long and 3 km wide.
6. Tampara Lake
   • A freshwater lake situated near Chhatrapur in Ganjam district.
   • Dimensions: 4 km long and 0.5 km wide.

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Artificial Lakes and Reservoirs

1. Hirakud Reservoir
   • Located 16 km north of Sambalpur district.
   • Covers an area of 743 sq km and is part of the Hirakud Dam, the longest dam in the world, built over the Mahanadi River.
   • Hosts migratory birds during winter, including species like common pochard and red-crested pochard.
2. Kolab Reservoir
   • An artificial lake formed by the Kolab Dam in Koraput district.
3. Sorada Reservoir
   • Situated near Berhampur in Ganjam district.
   • Also known as Sorada Ghai, it is primarily used for irrigation purposes.

These lakes and reservoirs contribute significantly to Odisha’s biodiversity, tourism, and agricultural irrigation, showcasing the state’s rich natural and engineered water resources.

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Waterfalls of Odisha

Odisha’s varied topography, including highlands, uplands, and plateaus, contributes to the presence of numerous breathtaking waterfalls. Below are some of the prominent waterfalls in the state:

1. Badaghagara

• Location: Keonjhar district.
• Positioned 3 km downstream of the Sanaghagara waterfall.
• Height: 60 m; a perennial source of water.
• Origin: Machha Kandana, a small river.

2. Barehipani

• Location: Mayurbhanj district, within Simlipal National Park.
• Height: 400 m; the highest waterfall in Odisha and the second-highest in India.
• Origin: Budhabalanga River.
• Nearby Waterfall: Joranda (150 m).

3. Duduma

• Location: On the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border.
• Distance: 92 km from Koraput (Odisha) and 177 km from Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh).
• Height: 175 m.
• Origin: Machkund River.
• Significance: Known as Matsya Tirtha and supports the Machkund Hydro Electric Power Project.

4. Gandahati

• Location: Gajapati district.
• Notable Feature: Its glittering and consistent flow throughout the year.

5. Harishankar

• Location: Southern slopes of the Gandhamardan Hills in Balangir district.
• Significance: A pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Hari and Lord Shankar.

6. Hatipathar

• Location: Rayagada district.
• Origin: Nagavali River.
• Unique Feature: Named after the elephant-shaped boulders (Hathi = elephant, Pathar = boulder).
• Popular as a picnic spot.

7. Joranda

• Location: Core area of Simlipal National Park in Mayurbhanj district.
• Height: 150 m.

8. Khandadhar

• Location:
  • Sundargarh district (244 m).
  • Keonjhar district (152 m).
• Known for its mineral-rich surroundings and scenic beauty.

9. Khandula

• Location: Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary in Kalahandi district.
• Named after the glow of Goddess Khandula, situated atop the hill.

10. Koilighugar

• Location: Jharsuguda district.
• Height: 61 m.
• Unique Feature: Contains a Shivalingam, Maheswarnath, inside the fall.
• Origin: Rivulet Ahiraj emerging from Chhuikhanch Forest.

11. Miriglotah

• Location: Sundargarh district, near Kalta iron mines, 111 km from Rourkela.
• Height: 30 m.

12. Nrusinghanath

• Location: Foothills of Gandhamardhan Hills in Bargarh district.
• Close to Nrusinghanath Temple.
• Nearby Waterfalls: Gadadhar, Pitrudhar, Guptadhar, Bhimadhar, Kapiladhar, and Chaladhar.

13. Phurli Jharan

• Location: Near Bhawanipatna in Kalahandi district.
• Height: 16 m.
• Notable Feature: Creates a multicolored rainbow due to sunlight scattering on water particles.

14. Putudi

• Location: 15 km from Phulbani in Kandhamal district.
• Origin: Bada Saluki River.
• Surrounded by dense forests and hills.

15. Pradhanpath

• Location: Near Deogarh district, 100 km from Sambalpur.
• Historical Importance: Site of Odisha’s first hydroelectric power plant.

16. Sanaghagra

• Location: 5 km from Keonjhar district.
• Height: 30 m; a perennial waterfall.

These waterfalls, with their unique features and scenic beauty, are significant tourist attractions and natural treasures of Odisha.

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Springs in Odisha

Odisha is home to numerous springs, primarily found along the Eastern and Western slopes of the Eastern Ghats. These springs have developed due to the region’s heavy rainfall and the presence of hard Gondwana gneiss rocks. Below is an overview of some of the notable springs in Odisha:

Major Springs in Odisha

Atri Spring

• Location: Khurda district
• Significance: Renowned for its hot sulphur spring with medicinal properties.
• Nearby Attraction: The Lord Hatakeswara Mahadev Shrine is situated near the spring.
• Temperature: Maintains a constant temperature of 55°C.

Deulajhari Spring

• Location: Angul district
• Significance: A popular pilgrimage site where the water originates from beneath a Shivalinga.
• Special Feature: The spring is channeled into 36 ponds surrounding a Shiva temple.
• Temperature Range: 40°C to 62°C.

Taptapani Spring

• Location: Near Mohana town in Gajapati district
• Geography: Found on the Eastern slope of the Eastern Ghats, atop a hill crest.
• Significance: Known for its sulphur-rich water with medicinal properties.
• Temperature Range: 90°C to 100°C.

Tarabalo Springs

• Location: Nayagarh district
• Special Feature: Covers a thermal field of approximately 8 acres, making it the largest thermal field in Odisha.
• Significance: Sulphuric water with medicinal properties, especially for treating skin ailments.
• Attraction: A popular picnic spot.

Other Notable Springs in Odisha

Spring	Location/District
Kapilas	Dhenkanal
Chandikhol	Cuttack
Mahavinayak	Barunei, Khurda
Narayani	Puri
Nirmal Jhar	Near Khallikote, Ganjam district
Gosing Jhar	Near Kantilo, Nayagarh district
Koilighugar	Jharsuguda
Jharbada	Near Malayagiri, Dhenkanal district

Bays and Islands in Odisha

Bays in Odisha

• Hukitola Bay:
  • Located on Jambu Island in Kendrapara district, north of the Mahanadi River delta.
  • Formed by silt deposits, it features a historical building constructed during British rule.

Islands in Odisha

1. Dr. Abdul Kalam Island:
   • Positioned off the coast of Odisha, approximately 150 km northeast of Bhubaneswar.
   • Formerly known as Wheeler Island, named after English Commandant Lieutenant Wheeler.
   • Renamed on 4th September 2015 in honor of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, the former President of India.
   • Houses an ISRO rocket launching center, playing a crucial role in India’s space research and defense programs.
2. Subalaya Island:
   • Situated at the confluence of the Mahanadi River and Surubalijora Stream.
   • Spanning an area of 3.32 square kilometers, it is an important geographical feature of the region.
3. Shortt’s Island:
   • Located in Banasada Tehsil of Bhadrak district.
   • Positioned 37 km from Banasada’s sub-district headquarters and 72 km from Bhadrak district headquarters.

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Significance of the Drainage System of Odisha

The drainage system of Odisha is a vital aspect of its physical geography, deeply influencing the state’s agriculture, economy, culture, and biodiversity. Odisha’s rivers, categorized into major river systems and minor streams, significantly impact its development. Here is a detailed account of the significance of Odisha’s drainage system:

1. Agriculture and Irrigation

• Irrigation Support: Odisha’s rivers provide essential water resources for agricultural activities. Major rivers like the Mahanadi, Brahmani, and Baitarani have facilitated the development of extensive irrigation projects, such as the Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi River.
• Fertile Soil Deposition: The rivers, particularly in their deltaic regions, deposit alluvial soil, enriching the farmlands. The deltas of rivers like Mahanadi and Baitarani are among the most fertile areas in the state.
• Flood-based Agriculture: Seasonal flooding of rivers contributes to the replenishment of soil nutrients, supporting crops like paddy, which is the primary staple food of Odisha.

2. Economic Importance

• Hydropower Generation: The drainage system of Odisha supports several hydroelectric power projects, such as the Hirakud Hydroelectric Project and Balimela Dam, which contribute significantly to the state’s energy needs.
• Inland Navigation: Rivers like the Mahanadi have been historically significant for inland navigation, facilitating trade and transport within the state.
• Fishery Development: Rivers, estuaries, and the Chilika Lake, fed by rivers such as Daya and Bhargavi, are vital for the fishing industry, supporting livelihoods and contributing to the state economy.

3. Water Supply

• The rivers serve as a critical source of drinking water for urban and rural areas. Reservoirs and river-fed systems ensure a sustainable water supply for domestic and industrial needs.

4. Cultural and Religious Significance

• Odisha’s rivers hold immense cultural and religious value. For example:
  • The Mahanadi is often referred to as the “lifeline of Odisha” and is revered in local traditions.
  • Rivers like Baitarani are considered sacred and play a role in rituals and festivals.
  • Religious sites, such as the Konark Sun Temple and the Jagannath Temple in Puri, are situated near rivers, demonstrating the cultural integration of the drainage system.

5. Biodiversity Conservation

• The river ecosystems in Odisha support a variety of flora and fauna.
  • Estuarine systems, such as those of the Brahmani and Baitarani rivers, support mangrove forests in the Bhitarkanika National Park, a critical habitat for saltwater crocodiles and other species.
  • The rivers feeding into Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, foster a unique ecosystem, hosting migratory birds and rare marine species like the Irrawaddy dolphin.

6. Natural Disaster Mitigation

• While rivers can cause flooding, the state’s drainage system helps in managing excess water during the monsoon season. Reservoirs and dams regulate river flow, reducing the impact of floods.

7. Tourism and Recreation

• The rivers and associated water bodies in Odisha attract tourists for their scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, such as boating, fishing, and water sports. The Chilika Lake, nourished by multiple rivers, is a UNESCO-recognized wetland of international importance.

Conclusion

The drainage system of Odisha is a lifeline for the state, shaping its geography, agriculture, economy, and culture. From providing water for irrigation and hydroelectric power to sustaining biodiversity and supporting tourism, the rivers of Odisha play a multifaceted role in the state’s development. However, challenges like pollution, deforestation, and climate change threaten the sustainability of this vital resource. By adopting effective management practices and fostering community participation in conservation efforts, Odisha can ensure that its rivers continue to nourish its land and people, while preserving their ecological and cultural significance for future generations.