Easy
Which region is well known for its hill stations?
Pir Panjal range
Describe the arc formed by the Himalayan Mountains.
They form an arc, which covers a distance of about 2400 km. Their width varies from 400 km in Kashmir to 150km in Arunachal Pradesh.
what will happen if there was no Deccan plateau in India?
Geographic and Climatic Changes
Altered Rainfall Patterns: The Deccan Plateau influences the monsoon winds. Without it, the monsoon could bring less rainfall to central and southern India, potentially leading to droughts in these regions.
Topographical Diversity: The absence of the plateau would reduce the geographic diversity of India, leading to a more uniform landscape. This could affect regional climate variations and ecosystems.
River Systems: Major rivers that originate in or are influenced by the plateau, like the Godavari and Krishna, might change course or be less significant, impacting water availability for millions.
Ecological Impact
Biodiversity Loss: The plateau supports unique ecosystems, including various flora and fauna. Its absence could lead to a loss of biodiversity and the habitats that support it.
Soil Composition: The Deccan Plateau is known for its volcanic soil, which is fertile and supports agriculture. Without it, soil quality in central and southern India could be less conducive to farming.
Economic and Cultural Effects
Agriculture: The plateau is crucial for agriculture, especially for crops like cotton, pulses, and millets. A lack of this fertile area would impact food production and economic stability in the region.
Urban Development: Cities like Pune, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru, which have developed around the plateau, would have different growth trajectories. Urban centers might not be as developed or might emerge in different locations.
Cultural Significance: The plateau has a rich cultural heritage, with historical sites and traditions linked to it. Its absence would change the cultural landscape of the region.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Transportation Routes: The plateau influences major transport routes. Without it, the connectivity between different regions could be altered, affecting trade and movement.
Hydropower Projects: Many hydropower projects rely on the rivers originating from the plateau. Its absence could impact energy production in the region.
The Purvachal range comprises of?
Patkai hills, Naga hills, Mizo hills and Manipur hills
Describe Chilika Lake.
Chilika Lake is the largest salt water lake in India. It lies in the state of Odisha, to the south of Mahanadi delta.
How is urbanization impacting the physical features of India, particularly in hilly or coastal areas?
Hilly Areas
Land Use Change: Rapid urbanization often leads to deforestation as forests are cleared for residential and commercial development. This can destabilize slopes, increasing the risk of landslides.
Soil Erosion: The construction of roads and buildings can disturb the soil, making it more susceptible to erosion. This can lead to loss of arable land and negatively affect local agriculture.
Water Drainage: Urbanization alters natural drainage patterns, which can cause flooding during heavy rains. Poor drainage infrastructure can exacerbate this issue, particularly in steep terrains.
Biodiversity Loss: The encroachment of urban areas into natural habitats can threaten local flora and fauna, leading to a decline in biodiversity.
Cultural Landscape Changes: Traditional practices and settlements are often displaced by urban development, altering the cultural landscape and heritage of hilly regions.
Coastal Areas
Coastal Erosion: Urbanization increases the risk of coastal erosion due to the construction of buildings and infrastructure close to shorelines. This can diminish beaches and alter coastal ecosystems.
Pollution: Urban development often leads to increased pollution in coastal waters from sewage, industrial runoff, and waste. This threatens marine life and local fisheries.
Mangrove Destruction: Coastal urbanization can lead to the clearing of mangroves, which are crucial for protecting shorelines and providing habitat for various species. This increases vulnerability to storms and rising sea levels.
Infrastructure Strain: The pressure of urban growth can strain existing infrastructure, such as ports and transportation systems, leading to congestion and degradation.
Climate Change Vulnerability: Coastal urban areas are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Urbanization can exacerbate these risks by increasing impermeable surfaces, which lead to flooding.
What regions does the Central Highlands cover?
The part of the Peninsular Plateau lying to the north of the Narmada river, covering a major area of the Malwa plateau, is known as the Central Highlands
Write a short note on the type of soil found in the Peninsular Plateau.
Black soil known as Deccan Trap. This is of volcanic origin, hence, the rocks are igneous. Actually, these rocks have denuded over time and are responsible for the formation of black soil.
How does the Thar Desert affect the economy and lifestyle of the people living in and around it?
Cultural Practices: The harsh environment influences lifestyle choices, such as nomadic or semi-nomadic living. Communities often have rich cultural traditions, including music, dance, and festivals, reflecting their desert heritage.
Water Scarcity: Access to water is a significant challenge. Many rely on traditional rainwater harvesting and groundwater sources. Water scarcity shapes daily routines and community organization.
Adaptation to Climate: Residents have adapted their homes and clothing to the desert climate, using local materials and techniques to create dwellings that withstand extreme temperatures.
Social Structure: Communities are often organized around clan or tribal affiliations, influencing social dynamics, resource sharing, and support networks.
Health and Education: Access to healthcare and education can be limited in remote areas, impacting overall well-being and development. Efforts to improve infrastructure are ongoing but face challenges.