The state of Haryana, situated in the northern part of India, exhibits a diverse drainage system influenced by its topography, geology, and climatic conditions. The drainage system of Haryana can be broadly categorized into two main basins: the Yamuna Basin and the Ghaggar Basin. This article delves deep into the various aspects of the drainage system of Haryana, exploring its rivers, seasonal streams, and the impact of human interventions.
1. Overview of Haryana's Drainage System
Haryana's topography is primarily characterized by flat plains interspersed with a few hilly regions in the northeast and Aravalli hills in the south. The drainage system is composed of perennial rivers, ephemeral streams, and man-made canals. The state lacks significant natural lakes, but it is interspersed with wetlands and ponds, contributing to local drainage.
2. Major Rivers in Haryana
2.1 Yamuna River
Origin: The Yamuna originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in Uttarakhand.
Flow in Haryana: It forms the eastern boundary of Haryana, flowing through districts like Yamunanagar, Karnal, Panipat, and Faridabad.
Significance: The Yamuna is the most important river in Haryana, serving as a crucial water source for irrigation, drinking water, and industrial needs.
Tributaries in Haryana:
Markanda River: Originates in the Shivalik Hills and joins the Yamuna.
Somb River: Another tributary originating in the Shivaliks, it merges with the Yamuna.
2.2 Ghaggar River
Origin: The Ghaggar originates in the Shivalik Hills of Himachal Pradesh.
Flow in Haryana: It flows through Ambala, Panchkula, Kaithal, and Fatehabad districts before entering Rajasthan.
Seasonality: A seasonal river, the Ghaggar flows during the monsoon, often causing floods in some regions.
Historical Significance: Believed to be the remnants of the ancient Saraswati River.
2.3 Saraswati River
Mythological and Historical Aspect: The Saraswati is often identified with the Ghaggar-Hakra river system. Efforts are underway to rejuvenate the Saraswati in Haryana through scientific and cultural initiatives.
Rejuvenation Projects: The Haryana Saraswati Heritage Development Board (HSHDB) has undertaken efforts to revive this river for cultural and ecological benefits.
3. Seasonal Streams and Watercourses
Haryanas drainage is further enriched by seasonal streams that carry water during the monsoon. These include:
3.1 Chautang River
Once a major tributary of the Ghaggar, the Chautang is now a seasonal stream that plays a role in local irrigation.
3.2 Sahibi River
Origin: Aravalli Hills near Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Flow: The Sahibi River flows through the southern districts of Haryana, including Rewari, Gurgaon, and Jhajjar.
Current Status: It is mostly dry, but its bed serves as a drainage channel during heavy rains.
3.3 Tangri River
Origin: Shivalik Hills.
Flow: It flows through the northern part of Haryana and joins the Ghaggar River.
4. Artificial Drainage System
Haryana has a well-developed network of artificial drainage systems, including canals and drains, which supplement its natural drainage. The canals primarily serve irrigation and flood management purposes.
4.1 Western Yamuna Canal (WYC)
Purpose: Irrigation and water supply.
Reach: Serves a large portion of Haryana, distributing water to the central and western regions.
4.2 Other Canals
Bhakra Canal System: Supplies water from the Sutlej River to northern Haryana.
JLN (Jawaharlal Nehru) Canal: A key canal for water distribution in southern Haryana.
5. Floods and Waterlogging Issues
5.1 Monsoon Flooding
Districts like Yamunanagar, Ambala, and Karnal often face floods due to overflowing rivers during the monsoon.
The Ghaggar River and its tributaries are prone to flooding.
5.2 Waterlogging
Southern Haryana, especially in regions like Jhajjar and Rewari, suffers from waterlogging due to poor drainage and flat terrain.
Improper disposal of wastewater and unplanned urbanization exacerbate the issue.
6. Rejuvenation and Conservation Efforts
Haryana has undertaken several initiatives to rejuvenate its rivers and manage its drainage systems effectively:
Saraswati Rejuvenation Project: To revive the lost glory of the Saraswati River.
Flood Management Projects: Construction of embankments, check dams, and desilting of canals.
Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM): Focuses on sustainable water use and drainage management.
7. Role of Drainage in Agriculture and Economy
Haryanas economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, with over 80% of its land under cultivation.
The states well-established canal irrigation system supports crops like wheat, rice, and sugarcane.
Drainage systems help mitigate droughts and manage excess rainfall, ensuring agricultural sustainability.
8. Environmental Concerns
8.1 Pollution
Rivers like the Yamuna face severe pollution due to industrial discharge and untreated sewage.
Effluents from cities such as Panipat and Faridabad pollute downstream stretches.
8.2 Decreasing Water Flow
Excessive groundwater extraction and climate change are reducing river flows, impacting natural drainage.
8.3 Encroachments
Urbanization has led to encroachments on riverbeds and natural drainage channels, causing disruptions.
9. Future Prospects and Challenges
Challenges:
Controlling pollution in rivers and streams.
Managing seasonal floods and waterlogging.
Ensuring equitable water distribution through canals.
Prospects:
Enhanced water management through technology.
Promoting eco-tourism along rivers like the Yamuna and Saraswati.
Increasing community participation in river conservation projects.
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