Previous Year Question
Two important rivers—one with its source in Jharkhand (and known by a different name in Odisha) and another, with its source in Odisha—merge at a place only a short distance from the coast of Bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. This is an important site of wildlife and biodiversity and a protected area.
Which one of the following could be this?
Bhitarkanika
Chandipur-on-sea
Gopalpur-on-sea
Simlipal
Correct Answer: B
Detailed Solution
The rivers described in the question are the Brahmani and Baitarani, and the protected area is Bhitarkanika.
Brahmani River:
The Brahmani is formed by the confluence of the Sankh and South Koel rivers at Vedavyas, near Rourkela in Odisha.
The headwaters of the Sankh–South Koel river system are associated with the Chota Nagpur Plateau and Jharkhand.
After these streams meet in Odisha, the river is known as the Brahmani.
Baitarani River:
The Baitarani originates in the Gonasika Hills of Keonjhar district in Odisha.
It is an important river originating within Odisha.
The Brahmani and Baitarani form a combined deltaic and estuarine system on the Odisha coast. They enter the Bay of Bengal near the Dhamra estuary. Bhitarkanika is situated within this river system.
Important features of Bhitarkanika:
It is located in Kendrapara district of Odisha.
Its natural landscape has been formed by the Brahmani–Baitarani–Dhamra river system.
It contains tidal creeks, marshes, mudflats and dense mangrove forests.
Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1975.
Its core area was declared Bhitarkanika National Park in 1998.
Bhitarkanika Mangroves were designated a Ramsar Wetland in 2002.
It is one of the important natural habitats of the saltwater or estuarine crocodile.
It supports numerous resident and migratory waterbirds, Indian pythons, king cobras and spotted deer.
Its mangroves protect the coast against cyclones and storm surges and provide breeding and nursery grounds for fish and crustaceans.
The nearby Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary is famous for the mass nesting or arribada of Olive Ridley turtles.
Why are the other options incorrect?
Chandipur-on-sea: Located on the Balasore coast, it is famous for the sea receding several kilometres during low tide.
Gopalpur-on-sea: It is a port and coastal tourist destination in Ganjam district.
Simlipal: It is an inland national park, tiger reserve and biosphere reserve in Mayurbhanj district, not a coastal river-confluence region.
Therefore, the correct answer is Bhitarkanika.