Son River with Map & Geography
The Son River, also called the Sone, is an important tributary of the Ganges River. It starts in Chhattisgarh and flows through four Indian states before joining the Ganges near Patna. This article examines the river’s origin, course, geographical characteristics, primary tributaries, and hydroelectric projects and dams.
Table of Contents
Geography of the Son River
Source and Path
- Length: Approximately 784 kilometers.
- Origin: Near Amarkantak Hill in the Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi district of Chhattisgarh.
- Course: Flows through Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.
- Confluence: Merges with the Ganges River near Patna in Bihar.
- Waterfalls: Forms a series of waterfalls at the edge of the Amarkantak plateau.
Tributaries of the Son River
- Ghaghar
- Johilla
- Chhoti Mahanadi
- Banas
- Gopad
- Rihand
- Kanhar
- North Koel River
Hydroelectric Projects and Dams
Major Dams
- Bansagar Dam: Located in Madhya Pradesh, this dam is pivotal for irrigation and hydroelectric power.
- Rihand Dam: Rihand Dam is located near Pipri in Uttar Pradesh on the Rihand River, contributing significantly to the region’s water management.
- Indrapuri Barrage: In Bihar, water from the Son River is diverted to the Sone Canal System for irrigation.
Historical Infrastructure
- Koilwar Bridge: Constructed in 1862 in Bihar, it is India’s oldest river bridge, connecting Arrah with Patna, and remains a vital transport link.
Ecological and Geographical Significance
Son Valley
- Extension of Narmada Valley: The Son Valley extends the Narmada River valley.
- Boundaries: Framed by the Kaimur Range to the north and the Chota Nagpur plateau to the south.
- Biodiversity: Rich in forests and home to various flora and fauna.
Flow Characteristics
- Gradient: The Son has a steep gradient of 35-55 cm per kilometer.
- Seasonal Flow: Experiences a temporary regime, becoming a raging river during the rainy season and a fordable stream during dry periods.
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