The Eastern Ghats is a discontinuous mountain range along the eastern coast of India, stretching from Odisha in the north to Tamil Nadu in the south. Here's an overview of the Eastern Ghats:
1. Geography: The Eastern Ghats run parallel to the eastern coast of India, forming a series of low hills, plateaus, and valleys. Unlike the Western Ghats on the western coast, which are continuous and relatively higher, the Eastern Ghats are fragmented and lower in elevation.
2. Topography: The Eastern Ghats comprise several hill ranges and plateaus, including the Mahendragiri Hills, Nallamala Hills, Palani Hills, and Shevaroy Hills, among others. These hills are interspersed with fertile valleys and river basins.
3. Rivers and Waterfalls: Several major rivers originate from the Eastern Ghats and flow eastward towards the Bay of Bengal, including the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri rivers. The Eastern Ghats are also known for their numerous waterfalls, such as the Jog Falls in Karnataka and the Duduma Waterfalls in Odisha.
4. Climate: The climate of the Eastern Ghats varies from region to region but is generally characterized by hot summers, moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, and cooler winters. The coastal areas experience a more tropical climate compared to the interior regions.
5. Biodiversity: The Eastern Ghats are home to diverse ecosystems, including dry deciduous forests, scrublands, grasslands, and tropical moist forests. They support a variety of flora and fauna, including several endemic species of plants, birds, and mammals.
6. Cultural Heritage: The Eastern Ghats have been inhabited by indigenous communities and civilizations for thousands of years. They are home to numerous tribal communities with unique cultures, languages, and traditions. The region also has several ancient temples, forts, and archaeological sites that reflect its rich cultural heritage.
7. Economic Activities: Agriculture is the primary economic activity in the Eastern Ghats, with crops such as rice, millets, pulses, tea, and coffee being cultivated in the region. The hills also have significant mineral resources, including bauxite, iron ore, manganese, and limestone, which support mining and industrial activities.
8. Conservation: The Eastern Ghats face various environmental threats, including deforestation, habitat loss, soil erosion, and mining activities. Conservation efforts are underway to protect the region's biodiversity and promote sustainable development.
Overall, the Eastern Ghats are an important geographical feature of India, with their diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance contributing to the country's natural and cultural heritage.
