Kerala is known for its natural beauty and abundant water. The state has 44 rivers and many large river basins that help keep the land green. Across India, the Ganges is the longest river, the Brahmaputra is the widest, and the Indus is also well known for its size. In India, many rivers have special names. Do you know which river is known as the Lifeline of Kerala? This important river stretches over 244 kilometres and provides energy to many homes. In this article, we will explore this river and learn why it is so important.
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Which River Is Called The Lifeline Of Kerala?
The Periyar River is famously known as the "Lifeline of Kerala". It is the longest river in the state and plays a massive role in providing drinking water, irrigation, and electricity to millions of people.
The Journey of the Periyar
- Where it starts: The river begins high up in the Sivagiri Hills of the Western Ghats. This point is located within the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
- The Path: It flows through deep forests and steep mountain gorges. As it moves toward the plains, it passes through the Idukki and Ernakulam districts.
- Where it empties: After travelling about 244 kilometres, the river reaches the Arabian Sea. It empties itself at the Munampham point near Kochi.
- States involved: The Periyar flows almost entirely through Kerala. However, its catchment area also includes a small portion of Tamil Nadu.
10 Lesser-Known Facts About the Periyar River
- The river is home to the Mullaperiyar Dam, a gravity dam built in 1895 using a unique mixture of lime and burnt brick powder.
- The Idukki Dam, built across this river, is one of the highest arch dams in Asia and is supported by two massive mountains.
- Over 25% of the river's basin is covered by thick forests, acting as a natural sponge that regulates water flow.
- Unlike many other South Indian rivers, the Periyar is perennial, meaning it flows year-round.
- A massive flood in 1341 changed the river's course and led to the creation of Kochi harbour, while destroying the ancient port of Muziris.
- The river supports over 40 fish species, including the endangered Malabar Mahseer, which thrives in its rocky sections.
- Though it flows toward the Arabian Sea, a significant portion of its water is diverted eastward into Tamil Nadu via tunnels.
- The riverbanks serve as a vital corridor for wild Asian elephants moving through the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
- Nearly 25% of Kerala's industries are located along the banks of this river in the Aluva region.
- The river generates a major portion of Kerala’s total electricity through the Idukki Hydroelectric Project.
What Is The Nickname Of The Periyar River?
The Periyar River is often called the "Lifeline of Kerala" because it provides most of the state's drinking water, irrigation, and industrial support. It is also known as the "Evergreen River" because its flow remains steady year-round, unlike many other rivers in India that dry up during certain seasons.
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Which River Is Called The Nile Of Kerala?
The Bharatapuzha, also known as the Nila, is called the "Nile of Kerala". Much like the Nile in Egypt, it is deeply rooted in the region's culture, literature, and traditions. It is the second-longest river in the state and has inspired countless poets and artists for centuries.
Which River Is Known As The Ganga Of Kerala?
The Pamba River is widely regarded as the "Ganga of Kerala" (Dakshina Ganga). This name is primarily due to its religious significance, as it is linked to the famous Sabarimala temple.
Which Is Kerala's Biggest River?
The Periyar River is the largest and longest river in Kerala. Stretching approximately 244 kilometres, it carries the state's highest volume of water. It originates in the Western Ghats and flows through various districts, including the area supporting the Idukki Dam, which is vital to the state's power supply.
What Is The Shortest River In Kerala?
The Manjeshwaram River is the shortest of Kerala’s 44 rivers. It runs through the northernmost part of the Kasaragod district and stretches about 16 kilometres before reaching the Uppala backwaters. Even though it is small, the river is an important water source for the local coastal ecosystem.
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