Which River Separates the Deccan Plateau and Central Highlands?

The Narmada River is the river that separates the Central Highlands and the Deccan Plateau. This major river in India is recognized as a critical geographical divider. It flows from east to west. This flow establishes a clear and natural line of separation.

The Central Highlands lie to the north of the river's course. The massive Deccan Plateau is situated immediately to the south. This division is fundamental to understanding the physical geography of the Indian subcontinent.

Narmada: The Lifeline and Rift Valley

The Narmada River is India’s fifth-longest river. It is also the longest river that flows entirely in a westward direction. The river originates from the Amarkantak Plateau in Madhya Pradesh. Its course spans approximately 1,312 km.

The Narmada flows through a distinct rift valley. This valley is carved between two significant mountain ranges. To the north stands the Vindhya Range. The Satpura Range forms the southern boundary of the valley. This geological formation underscores the river's role as a separator. The river traverses through Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. Due to its importance, it is often called the "Lifeline of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat." It drains into the Arabian Sea, forming an estuary instead of a traditional delta.

The Central Highlands: North of Narmada

The Central Highlands are situated immediately north of the Narmada River. This region forms the northern block of the Peninsular Plateau. It consists mainly of hard crystalline and metamorphic rocks.

The elevation of these highlands generally decreases toward the north. A major component of this region is the Malwa Plateau. This plateau lies predominantly in Madhya Pradesh. Other parts include the Bundelkhand and Baghelkhand regions. Most rivers in the Central Highlands drain towards the north and northeast. They join the Yamuna and Ganga rivers.

The Deccan Plateau: South of Narmada

The Deccan Plateau lies directly to the south of the Narmada River. It is a large, inverted triangular landmass. The Satpura Range defines its northern edge. It is one of the oldest and most stable landmasses in the world.

The plateau has an average elevation of about 600 meters. The Deccan Plateau generally slopes from west to east. This eastern slope dictates the flow of most major rivers. The Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri all flow eastward. Key sub-regions include the Maharashtra Plateau, the Karnataka Plateau, and the Andhra Pradesh-Telangana Plateau. The western edge is marked by the Western Ghats. The Eastern Ghats mark its eastern boundary. This plateau is rich in black soil, also known as Regur soil.

Geographical Significance of the Division

The Narmada River's role as a boundary is deeply significant. It marks a major shift in geological and climatic patterns. The land north of the river behaves differently than the land south of it.

The division influences hydrology, climate, and soil types. Understanding this natural separation is key for studying India's physical environment. The river preserves the unique geological identity of the two massive landforms. This geological feature is crucial for competitive exams and academic study.