Previous Year Question

The Luni is one of the most important river systems of western Rajasthan. Instead of reaching the sea as a conventional river, it forms part of the inland drainage system of the arid region. It flows southwestward and is ultimately lost in the saline and marshy lands of the Rann of Kutch.

Course of the Luni:

• It originates from the western slopes of the Aravalli Range and the Pushkar Valley, near Ajmer in Rajasthan.

• In its upper course, it is known as the Sagarmati.

• It mainly flows southwestward through the Pali, Jodhpur, Balotra-Barmer and Jalore regions of Rajasthan.

• It does not form a permanent marine mouth or delta.

• Low rainfall, high evaporation, infiltration into sandy terrain and irregular discharge greatly reduce its volume downstream.

• Its channels finally terminate in the saline and marshy lands of the Rann of Kutch.

Salinity of the Luni’s water:

• Near its source, the water is comparatively fresh.

• Downstream of Balotra, the water becomes increasingly saline.

• This is associated with salt-rich arid soils, limited discharge and high evaporation.

• The name ‘Luni’ is also considered to be related to the Sanskrit word lavana, meaning salt.

Major tributaries: The Jawai, Sukri, Bandi, Jojari, Guhiya and Sagi are among its important tributaries. Most of them are seasonal and depend upon monsoon rainfall.

Why are the other options incorrect?

• Option (a): The Luni does not enter the Gulf of Khambhat. Rivers such as the Mahi, Narmada, Tapi and Sabarmati are associated with the Gulf of Khambhat.

• Option (b): It has no regular channel reaching the Gulf of Kutch; it terminates earlier in the marshes of the Rann of Kutch.

• Option (c): It does not flow into Pakistan and join a tributary of the Indus.

• Option (d): This correctly describes the inland drainage of the Luni.