East-Flowing Rivers:
1. Godavari River:
- Origin: Western slopes of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra
- Length: Approximately 1,465 km
- Basin Area: About 313,000 sq. km
- Major Tributaries: Manjra, Pranhita, Indravati, Wainganga, Penganga
- States Covered: Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh
2. Krishna River:
- Origin: Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra
- Length: Around 1,400 km
- Basin Area: Approximately 258,000 sq. km
- Major Tributaries: Bhima, Tungabhadra, Musi
- States Covered: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh
West-Flowing Rivers:
1. Narmada River:
- Origin: Amarkantak Plateau in Madhya Pradesh
- Length: Approximately 1,312 km
- Basin Area: About 98,796 sq. km
- Major Tributaries: Hiran, Orsang, Shakkar, Tawa, Barna, Kolar
- States Covered: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat
2. Tapti River:
- Origin: Betul district in Madhya Pradesh
- Length: Around 724 km
- Basin Area: Approximately 65,145 sq. km
- Major Tributaries: Purna, Waghur, Bori
- States Covered: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat
Comparison:
- The east-flowing rivers of the Peninsular Plateau are generally longer than the west-flowing rivers.
- The east-flowing rivers have more extensive basin areas compared to the west-flowing rivers.
- The east-flowing rivers drain a larger portion of the Peninsular Plateau than the west-flowing rivers.
- The east-flowing rivers are more significant for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and drinking water supply in the densely populated regions of the plateau.
- The west-flowing rivers play a vital role in supporting the industrial and agricultural activities in the western part of the plateau.
Both the east-flowing and west-flowing rivers of the Peninsular Plateau are essential for the socio-economic development of the region. They provide water for irrigation, generate hydroelectric power, facilitate transportation, and sustain various ecosystems.