Ajay River
Ajay River is a seasonal river that flows through Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, eventually merging with the Bhagirathi-Hooghly River near Katwa. It covers a total length of 288 km, out of which 152 km lies in West Bengal.
Table of Contents
Origin and Course
The river originates from the Jamui Hills in Jamui district, Bihar. It then flows southeast through Jharkhand and West Bengal, finally joining the Bhagirathi near Katwa.
Catchment & Tributaries
The catchment area of the Ajay River is around 6,000 sq. km. Major tributaries include:
- Pathro and Jayanti in Jharkhand
- Tumuni and Kunur in West Bengal
Cities and Towns Along the River
The river passes through several towns and cities, including:
- Deoghar
- Jamtara
- Chittaranjan
- Pandabeswar
- Illambazar
- Bhedia
- Nutanhat
- Katwa
Historical Notes
Ancient Greek historians referred to a river named Amystis, flowing past a city called Katadupa—now believed by some scholars to be the Ajay River near modern-day Katwa. Further, in the lower Ajay valley, Pandu Rajar Dhibi is an important archaeological site resembling early Indus Valley Civilisation traits.
