Arkavathi River: Key Facts with Map, Origin & Tributaries
Arkavathi River is a tributary of the Cauvery River in the Indian state of Karnataka. It originates from the Nandi Hills and flows for around 190 kilometers, passing through Bengaluru Rural, Ramanagara, and Mandya districts. The river’s basin covers an area of approximately 4,253 square kilometers, contributing significantly to the Cauvery River basin system.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Source | Nandi Hills, Chikballapur District, Karnataka |
| Length | 190 kilometers |
| Flow Direction | Southward |
| Confluence | Sangama, Mekedatu (with Cauvery River) |
| Basin Area | 4,253 sq. km. |
| Tributaries | Kumudavathi, Suvarnamukhi, Vrishabhavathi |
| Notable Reservoirs | Hesaraghatta Reservoir, T.G. Halli Reservoir |
Table of Contents
Origin and Course of the Arkavathi River
The Arkavathi River originates from the Nandi Hills, located in the Chikballapur District of Karnataka. It flows southward for about 190 kilometers, passing through Bengaluru Rural, Ramanagara, and Mandya districts. The river finally merges with the Cauvery River at Sangama, near Mekedatu in Ramanagara District.
Tributaries of the Arkavathi River
The Arkavathi River has three primary tributaries:
- Kumudavathi
- Suvarnamukhi
- Vrishabhavathi
These tributaries flow into the Arkavathi, helping sustain its course.
Dams and Reservoirs on the Arkavathi River
- Hesaraghatta Reservoir: Established in 1894, this reservoir once served as a key drinking water source for Bengaluru. However, over time, it has experienced significant drying due to reduced inflow and increasing siltation.
- Tippagondanahalli (T.G. Halli) Reservoir: Built in 1933, it was a vital water supply for Bengaluru. Unfortunately, its utility has diminished due to siltation and pollution, leading to a decline in water storage capacity.
Significance
Arkavathi River is vital for agriculture, water supply, and biodiversity. It historically supplied water to Bengaluru through T.G. Halli and Hesaraghatta reservoirs, supporting irrigation for crops like millets, pulses, and vegetables. Its ecosystems sustain diverse plant and animal species. Popular spots like Sangama and Mekedatu attract tourists. Key contributions:
- Agriculture: Crop irrigation.
- Water Supply: Bengaluru’s water source.
- Biodiversity: Diverse ecosystems.
- Tourism: Scenic destinations.
Challenges
The Arkavathi River faces several environmental challenges:
- Pollution: Industrial effluents and untreated sewage, especially from Bengaluru, severely pollute the river. The Vrishabhavathi tributary is a major contributor of toxic waste, which compromises water quality.
- Heavy Metal Contamination: High concentrations of mercury, DDT, and PAH have been found in the T.G. Halli Reservoir, posing significant health risks.
- Polluted River Stretches: Sections of the river are considered heavily polluted due to high BOD levels.
Government Initiatives and Interventions
To combat these issues, several initiatives have been launched:
- River Rejuvenation Projects: The Karnataka government has allocated ₹553 crore for cleaning the Arkavathi River. Another ₹9 crore is required to implement action plans for improving water quality (Times of India).
- Pollution Control Efforts: There are ongoing efforts to reduce industrial discharge and untreated sewage to improve the river’s water quality.
- Vrishabhavathi River Restoration: A ₹1,500 crore project is aimed at cleaning the Vrishabhavathi River, a key tributary of the Arkavathi, to restore its ecological balance and enhance water availability for irrigation (Indian Express).
National Green Tribunal (NGT) Orders
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has also intervened in addressing the pollution of the Arkavathi River. The tribunal has issued orders to regulate industrial discharge and sewage, crucial for restoring the river’s health.
For more details, visit the NGT Orders on the Arkavathi River.
For more detailed information on the river systems in Karnataka, explore our comprehensive articles on the Cauvery River and Karnataka Rivers.
