Chapter 26: The Rivers of Jharkhand and Their Importance from a Tourism Perspective
Abstract:
- SubarnarekhaAlso known as the "River of Gold", this river originates from the Chota Nagpur Plateau and flows into the Bay of Bengal. It supports agriculture and wildlife.
- DamodarThis river flows through Jharkhand and West Bengal. It was once known as the "Sorrow of Bengal" because of the floods it caused.
- MayurakshiThis river originates from the Trikut Hills near Deoghar and flows through Jharkhand and West Bengal. It supports agriculture and hydropower generation.
- AjayThis river originates from the Deoghar district and flows through Jharkhand and West Bengal. It supports agriculture and has historical and cultural significance.
- SankhThis river originates from the Netarhat plateau and flows through the Gumla district. It supports tribal communities and has rich biodiversity.
Jharkhand, known for its lush green forests, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, is also blessed with several rivers that contribute significantly to its ecology, economy, and tourism. The rivers of Jharkhand not only support agriculture, hydropower, and industries but also serve as scenic attractions, offering opportunities for adventure tourism, pilgrimage, and recreational activities.
This chapter explores the major rivers of Jharkhand, including the Subernarekha, North Koel, South Koel, Damodar, Kanchi, Rarh, Usri, and Kharkai, along with their tributaries and the dams built on them. It also highlights their tourism potential and the ways they attract visitors.
26.1 Subernarekha River
Overview
The Subernarekha River is one of the most important rivers in Jharkhand, originating from the Ranchi Plateau near Nagri village. It flows through Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha before merging into the Bay of Bengal. The river gets its name from the presence of traces of gold ("Subarna" means gold in Sanskrit) in its sand.
Tributaries
- Kanchi River
- Kharkai River
- Rarh River
- Karkari River
Tourism Potential
- Dassam Falls: A stunning waterfall located near Ranchi, formed by the Subernarekha River, attracts thousands of tourists annually.
- Hundru Falls: Another major attraction, famous for its breathtaking view, making it a popular picnic spot.
- Sun Temple: Located near Bundu, on the banks of the river, it is a key religious and architectural attraction.
- Galudih Hill Station: The river passes through beautiful hills in Galudih, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Dams and Projects
- Chandil Dam: Built on the Subernarekha River, it supports irrigation and hydroelectric projects while serving as a scenic tourist spot.
- Subernarekha Multipurpose Project: It helps in water supply, irrigation, and electricity generation in Jharkhand and Odisha.
26.2 North Koel River
Overview
The North Koel River originates from the Palamu district and flows through Jharkhand and Bihar before merging into the Son River, a tributary of the Ganges. It passes through the Betla National Park, adding to the region's natural beauty.
Tributaries
- Amanat River
- Burha River
Tourism Potential
- Betla National Park: The river enhances the beauty of the park, making it a prime wildlife tourism destination.
- Lodh Falls: The highest waterfall in Jharkhand, located on the Burha River (a tributary of North Koel), is a mesmerizing sight.
Dams and Projects
- Mandal Dam: A major dam constructed on the North Koel, which plays a crucial role in irrigation and water management.
- Kutku Dam Project: Part of the North Koel irrigation project, though controversial, remains a significant hydropower initiative.
26.3 South Koel River
Overview
The South Koel River originates in Ranchi district and flows through Jharkhand and Odisha before merging into the Brahmani River.
Tributaries
- Karo River
- Koina River
Tourism Potential
- Jhinkpani Hills: The river meanders through the scenic hills of Jhinkpani, offering a perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts.
- Simdega Tourism: Various riverbanks along the South Koel in Simdega district serve as picnic and photography locations.
Dams and Projects
- Koel-Karo Hydroelectric Project (proposed): A controversial but significant project that aims to harness the river’s energy potential.
26.4 Damodar River
Overview
The Damodar River, known as the "Sorrow of Jharkhand," originates from the Chotanagpur Plateau. It flows through Jharkhand and West Bengal before merging into the Hooghly River. The river has historical significance as an industrial and mining belt in eastern India.
Tributaries
- Barakar River
- Konar River
- Bhera River
- Jamunia River
Tourism Potential
- Maithon Dam: A famous tourist attraction known for its picturesque reservoir and boating facilities.
- Panchet Dam: Offers water sports and serves as a scenic picnic destination.
- Tenughat Dam: A beautiful location with a serene lake, making it a great weekend getaway.
Dams and Projects
- Maithon Dam
- Panchet Dam
- Konar Dam
- Tenughat Dam
26.5 Kanchi River
Overview
The Kanchi River is a tributary of the Subernarekha, originating in Ranchi district. It plays a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem.
Tourism Potential
- Dassam Falls: Since the Kanchi is a tributary of the Subernarekha, its waters contribute to this famous waterfall.
26.6 Rarh River
Overview
The Rarh River is a small but significant tributary of the Subernarekha, flowing through Jharkhand.
Tourism Potential
- The river passes through forested areas, offering a serene setting for eco-tourism and wildlife photography.
26.7 Usri River
Overview
The Usri River flows through Giridih district and is known for its scenic beauty and waterfalls.
Tourism Potential
- Usri Falls: A famous tourist spot near Giridih, known for its breathtaking view and rocky surroundings, making it a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers.
26.8 Kharkai River
Overview
The Kharkai River is an important tributary of the Subernarekha, originating from Odisha and flowing through Jharkhand before merging with the Subernarekha in Jamshedpur.
Tourism Potential
- Dimna Lake: Created by the Dimna Dam on the Kharkai River, it is a major attraction for boating, picnics, and nature walks.
Dams and Projects
- Dimna Dam: A well-known artificial lake that supplies water to Jamshedpur city and serves as a popular tourist destination.
26.9 Rivers and Dams in Santhal Parganas, Jharkhand
Santhal Parganas, a culturally rich and picturesque region of Jharkhand, is home to several rivers and dams that play a crucial role in its agriculture, water supply, hydroelectricity, and tourism. The major rivers in this region are Mayurakshi, Ajay, Bansloi, and Brahmani, along with their tributaries. These rivers support irrigation, fishing, and provide scenic landscapes that attract tourists.
Major Rivers in Santhal Parganas
Mayurakshi River
- Originates in Trikut Hills (Deoghar district) and flows into West Bengal.
- Supports agriculture and is significant for hydroelectric projects.
- Tourism: Trikut Hills, known for ropeway rides and religious tourism, is located near the river.
Ajay River
- Originates from Jamui district (Bihar) and flows through Dumka and Pakur before entering West Bengal.
- Important for local farming and fisheries.
- Tourism: Massanjore Dam on this river is a major tourist destination.
Bansloi River
- Originates in Dumka district and flows into West Bengal.
- Supports irrigation and provides drinking water.
Brahmani River
- Flows through Deoghar and Dumka.
- Important for local agriculture.
Major Dams in Santhal Parganas
Massanjore Dam (on Mayurakshi River)
- Built in 1956, located near Dumka.
- Supports irrigation, hydropower, and drinking water.
- Tourism: Offers boating, scenic views, and picnic spots, attracting visitors from nearby states.
Panchkhero Dam (on a tributary of Mayurakshi)
- Located in Dumka district.
- Supplies water for agriculture and fisheries.
- Tourism: A serene location for nature lovers and picnic-goers.
Sundar Dam (in Deoghar district)
- Provides water for irrigation and drinking purposes.
- Surrounded by hills and forests, making it a peaceful tourist spot.
Importance of Rivers and Dams in Santhal Parganas
- Irrigation & Agriculture: These rivers and dams provide essential water for paddy, maize, and millet cultivation, which are the main crops in the region.
- Hydroelectric Power: Massanjore Dam contributes to hydroelectric production and helps meet power needs.
- Tourism & Recreation: The rivers and reservoirs serve as scenic attractions, promoting eco-tourism, adventure tourism (boating, fishing), and religious tourism (Trikut Hills near Mayurakshi).
- Drinking Water Supply: Several dams ensure water availability for rural and urban settlements.
The rivers and dams of Santhal Parganas are not just vital resources for sustaining livelihoods but also hold immense potential for tourism and regional development. Proper conservation and eco-tourism initiatives can further enhance their significance in Jharkhand’s tourism landscape.
26.10 Conclusion
The rivers of Jharkhand are not just water bodies; they are lifelines for the local communities and key attractions for tourism. From gushing waterfalls and serene dams to wildlife sanctuaries and historical sites, these rivers shape the tourism landscape of the state.
Adventure tourism, religious tourism, eco-tourism, and recreational tourism—each finds a place along these rivers. With proper conservation and sustainable tourism development, Jharkhand's rivers can become even bigger attractions for nature lovers, photographers, and explorers.
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