The Teesta River flows through two countries, India and Bangladesh, covering a distance of over 414 km. The river originates from the Himalayas and flows through the states of Sikkim, West Bengal, and Assam before entering Bangladesh. Also, it is a right bank tributary of the Brahmaputra river.
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Geography and Geology of Teesta River
The Teesta River originates from the Pahunri glacier in Sikkim, at an altitude of over 7,000 meters. The river flows through steep gorges and valleys, cutting through the mountains and creating some of the most spectacular landscapes in the region. The Teesta River is a snow-fed river and gets most of its water from the melting glaciers and snow in the Himalayas. The river’s flow is highly seasonal, with peak flow during the monsoon season and low flow during the winter months.
Flora and Fauna
The Teesta River is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The river is home to several fish species, including the golden Mahseer, Trout, and Catfish. The river is also a popular spot for bird watching and hosts several bird species like kingfishers, egrets, and herons. The riverbanks are rich in vegetation like Sal, Teak, and bamboo.
Economic Impact of Teesta River
The Teesta River plays a crucial role in the economy of the region. The river is a primary source of water for irrigation, and several farmers in the region rely on the river for their crops. It is also used for hydroelectric power generation, and several hydroelectric power plants have been set up along the river. The river is also a source of fish, and several fisherfolk in the region depend on the river for their livelihoods.
Environmental Issues
The River is facing several environmental issues, and the river’s health is under threat. Further, The river’s flow has been disrupted due to the construction of several dams along the river, which has led to a decrease in water flow downstream. Moreover, The decrease in water flow has led to a decline in fish populations, and several fish species are on the verge of extinction. The river is also facing issues due to pollution, and several industries located along the river are dumping untreated waste into the river.
Q. Which of the following countries is in a dispute over water-sharing of the Teesta River?
A) India and Nepal
B) India and China
C) India and Bangladesh
D) India and Bhutan
Answer: C) India and Bangladesh
Explanation: The River originates in the Himalayas and flows through Sikkim and West Bengal in India before entering Bangladesh, where it is a crucial source of water for agriculture and irrigation. India and Bangladesh have been in a long-standing dispute over water-sharing of the Teesta River, with the latter demanding a fair share of water during the dry season.
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