UPSC Prelims 2011 · GS Paper I
Question 12: Geography
Two important rivers — one with its source in Jharkhand (and known by a different name in Odisha), and another, with its source in Odisha - merge at a place only a short distance from the coast of Bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. This is an important site of wildlife and biodiversity and a protected area. Which one of the following could be this ?
AnswerThe answer is (a).
Bhitarkanika, in Kendrapara district on Odisha's coast, lies in the delta where the Brahmani and the Baitarani meet shortly before reaching the Bay of Bengal. The Brahmani is formed from the South Koel and Sankh rivers, which rise in Jharkhand, while the Baitarani rises in Odisha's Keonjhar hills. The area has dense mangroves, saltwater crocodiles and the nearby Gahirmatha beach where Olive Ridley turtles nest, and it is a wildlife sanctuary, national park and Ramsar site.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Right: mangrove delta of the Brahmani and Baitarani, a protected area.
- (b) Chandipur-on-sea is a beach resort on the Balasore coast, not a two-river confluence site.
- (c) Gopalpur-on-sea is a port and beach town in Ganjam district.
- (d) Simlipal is an inland hill forest and tiger reserve in Mayurbhanj, away from the coast.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2011, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.