Mahanadi River: The Green Heart of Odisha Life Line(2023)
The Mahanadi River, an iconic waterway of East Central India, holds immense cultural, economic, and ecological significance. The journey of this majestic river commences at its origin, where nature’s grand design sets in motion the lifeline of millions. Let us delve into the fascinating story of the Mahanadi River’s birth and its profound significance in shaping the land and people it blesses.
Originating in the dense forests of the Dhamtari district in Chhattisgarh, this majestic river flows for about 851 km before merging into the Bay of Bengal. Let us embark on a journey to uncover the various aspects of the Mahanadi River and its impact on the regions it nurtures.
Longitude Latitude | 80Ā° 28ā to 86Ā° 43ā E 19Ā° 8ā to 23Ā° 32ā N |
Length of Mahanadi River (Km) | 851 |
Catchment Area (Sq.km.) | 141589 |
Average Water Resource Potential (MCM) | 66880 |
Utilizable Surface Water Resource (MCM) | 50000 |
Live Storage Capacity of Completed Projects (MCM) | 12799.0 |
Live Storage Capacity of Projects Under Construction (MCM) | 1465.0 |
Total Live Storage Capacity of Projects (MCM) | 14244.0 |
No. of Hydrological Observation Stations (CWC) | 39 |
No. of Flood Forecasting Stations (CWC) | 4 |
Mahanadi River Map

Mahanadi River System
This river system is known to be ranked second in terms of water potential among the peninsular rivers. It is the biggest river that is situated in Odisha. The word āMahanadiā is a combination of two Sanskrit terms. They are āMahaā, which means great, and the term āNadiā means river.
The Mahanadi River system
- On the north side, it is surrounded by the Central India hills.
- The south and east sides are guarded by the Eastern Ghats. In the west, by the Maikala range.
- The Mahanadi Riverās origin is in the mountain streams of Dhamtari. This is located in the district of Chhattisgarh. This location has an elevation of 442 meters.
- In the Indian subcontinent, it is known to be the highest active silt depositing river.
- It is known to be ranked second in terms of flood-producing capacity. The first is the river Godavari.
- At the mouth of the river, a place called Puri is located. It is known to be a popular pilgrimage site.
- This river basin is circular with a diameter of 400 km and 60 km in breadth.
- It receives about 90% of its rainfall during the monsoon.
- The main soils found in this basin are red and yellow.
Mahanadi River Origin and its Course
The Mahanadi River’s origin lies in the lap of nature, tucked away in the verdant hills of Dhamtari district in Chhattisgarh. It emerges as a small stream, gradually gathering strength to become a powerful river that influences the lives of communities along its course.
The entire course of this river is divided into three parts: upper, middle, and lower regions
1. The origin and the upper course
This river system is a combination of various streams in the mountains. The riverās origin is in the foothills of Dandakaranya. This is located in the district of Chhattisgarh. This location has an elevation of 442 meters.
For about 100 kilometers, the river passes in the northern direction and drains the district of Raipur. It grazes the eastern parts of the Raipur district. The entire length of the valley is between 500 and 600 meters.
2. The Middle course
The river flows towards the east after joining Shivnath. It is later joined by rivers Jonk and Hasdeo before setting foot in Odisha. Close to Sambalpur, it is dammed by the Hirakud dam.
Since the formation of the Chhattisgarh state, most of the Mahanadi basin lies here. Currently, about 169 sq km of the area lies in the state of Madhya Pradesh.
It then circles the Baudh district boundaries and forces its way towards Odisha. At the Odisha plains of Najar, the river enters, which is situated about 14 kilometers from Cuttack.
3. Lower course
Right before entering Cuttack, this river gives off Kathjori, a distributary. This distributary gives off many streams such as Kuakhai, Devi, and Surua. The entrance of this river is via various channels located near Paradeep at Jagatsinghpur. The combination of Brahmani and delta of Mahanadiās distributaries is known to be one of the largest in India.
Mahanadi River Tributaries
There are 2 main types of tributaries for this river. They are:
- Left bank tributaries: these include the Seonath, the Hasedeo, the Mand, and the Ib.
- Right bank tributaries include the Tel, Ong, and Jonk rivers.
1. Seonath
- Origin: starts from the Panabaras hill and flows in the northeast direction.
- Total length: 345 kilometers
- It feeds the industries and population of the Durg district
2. Hasdeo
- Origin: Chhattisgarh
- Total length: 333 kilometers
- Flows through south Chhattisgarh, along Bilaspur and the districts of Korba
3. Mand
- This joins river Mahanadi in Chandrapur before it reaches Hirakud dam
- Total length: 241 sq kilometer
- The Mand River dam is built in the Raigarh district in Chhattisgarh
4. Ib
- Origin: Raigarh
- Runs a distance of 252km
- Drains area: 12,447 sq km
- Famous for its rich coal belt
5. Ong
- Passes through Odisha and joins Mahanadi at Sambalpur
- Drains area: 5124 sq km
6. Tel
- Origin: Nabarangpur
- Known as the second-largest river in Odisha
Mahanadi River Basin
Mahanadi River Basin is the largest basin of this region. The total catchment area of the basin is about 1,41,600 kmĀ². Details of these are given below:
Sl. No. | Name of the State | Drainage Area (KmĀ²) | % of Total Area |
1. | Chhattisgarh | 74,970 | 52.9 |
2. | Odisha | 65,600 | 46.3 |
3. | Jharkhand | 650 | 0.5 |
4. | Maharashtra | 250 | 0.2 |
5. | Madhya Pradesh | 130 | 0.1 |
Total: | 1,41,600 | 100.0 |
Dams/Projects on Mahanadi River
1. Hirakud Dam
Hirakud Dam is an Artificial Lake in Sambalpur and Jharsuguda largest artificial lake in Asia. Hirakud Dam, an engineering marvel nestled in the state of Odisha, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resilience. Proudly resting on the Mahanadi River, this grand structure has transformed the landscape and the lives of the people it serves. The Hirakud Damās significance in water management, power generation, and economic growth has made it an essential part of Indiaās development journey.
2. Gangrel Dam
Another name for the Gangrel Dam is Ravishankar Dam. In the Dhamtari District, this location is quite a famous spot for visitors. The dam has been constructed along the breadth of the river named Mahanadi. The distance of the dam is 15 km. A Hydel power project named the Gangrel Hydel Power Project of 10 MV capacity has been developed here. The power for the neighboring area is produced. As much as 15,000 cusecs of water are contained by the Gangrel Dam.
3. Dudhawa Reservoir
Dudhawa Dam is a reservoir located in Chhattisgarh, India, and it is situated in the district of Jashpur in the state of Chhattisgarh. The dam was constructed in 1965 on the Rivers Mahanadi and Pairi confluence confluence confluence confluence confluence confluence confluence confluence confluence. It is a vital source of irrigation, electricity, and drinking water for the nearby villages.
The Dudhawa Dam is a gravity dam that is approximately 200 meters long, and it has a height of 21 meters and a maximum water storage capacity of 10.3 million cubic meters. The Dudhawa Dam is an important source of hydroelectric power, and it generates around 4 MW of energy supplied to the local villages and towns.
4. Sondur Reservoir
Sondur Dam is situated in Chhattisgarh, India. It is an earthen dam built across a natural depression in the terrain. The government of Chhattisgarh constructed the dam to provide irrigation to the local area. The dam is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by lush green hills. The area near the dam is home to various flora and fauna, and the surrounding forests are a great spot for nature lovers.
5. Hasdeo Bango Reservoir
Hasdeo Bango Hydel Electric Project is situated in the village of Machadoli, Katghora, Korba on the left bank of the Hasdeo River. This Project is designed for multipurpose use. The Project was sanctioned by Planning Commission in March 1984.
6. Tandula Dam
Tandula Dam is located in Chhattisgarh in India. It is located about 2 km from Balod Collectorate in Balod district. The dam project was started in 1910 on the confluence of the Tandula and Sukha Nala rivers and was completed in 1921. The dam stores water from the catchment area of 827.2 square kilometers (319.4 sq mi). The gross storage capacity of the reservoir is 302.31 million cubic meters and the highest flood level is 333.415 meters (1,093.88 ft). Its Designed Area is 25397 Hact.
Industries Based on Mahanadi River
Urban Center | State | Industry |
---|---|---|
Bhilai | Chhattisgarh | Iron and steel |
Durg | Chhattisgarh | Textiles, engineering, power generation |
Raipur | Chhattisgarh | Iron and steel, power generation, education, IT |
Cuttack | Odisha | Port, education, tourism, IT |
Rourkela | Odisha | Steel, mining, power generation |
Sambalpur | Odisha | Education, Health, power generation, Aluminum |
Jharsuguda | Odisha | Steel, mining, power generation |
Importance of the Mahanadi in Agriculture and Economy
The fertile plains alongside the Mahanadi River form the heartland of agriculture in central India. The river’s water supports extensive cultivation of rice, sugarcane, and various other crops, contributing significantly to the region’s agricultural economy.
Environmental Challenges and Conservation Efforts
Despite its significance, the Mahanadi River faces various environmental challenges. Pollution from industrial waste and untreated sewage poses a threat to its water quality, affecting both humans and wildlife. Various conservation efforts are underway to protect the river’s ecosystem.
The River’s Impact on Local Communities
The Mahanadi River is not just a water body; it is the lifeblood of the communities living along its banks. It shapes their livelihoods, culture, and traditions.
Biodiversity and Ecological Importance
The river and its basin support a rich biodiversity, with various plant and animal species dependent on its waters. Preserving this ecological balance is crucial for sustainable development.
Challenges to River Health: Pollution and Water Management
Unregulated industrial activities and improper waste disposal have led to increased pollution levels in the Mahanadi River. Addressing these challenges is vital to safeguarding its health.
Initiatives for Restoration and Preservation
Several governmental and non-governmental organizations are working together to restore the river’s health and promote sustainable water management practices.
FAQ
In which state is Mahanadi River?
Chhattisgarh and Odisha and comparatively smaller portions of Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh in central India.
Which district of Odisha does Mahanadi River flow through?
Cuttack District.
What is the old name of Mahanadi River?
Different names such asĀ Kanak Nandini, Chitrotpala, Nilotpala, Mahananda, and Mahanadi or Mahashweta.
Which river is called the Sorrow of Odisha?
The MahanadiĀ was called ‘the sorrow of Orissa for its devastating floods for much of recorded history.
How long is the Mahanadi River?
The Mahanadi River stretches for approximately 851 KMS.
Also,Ā Visit: TheĀ Brahmani River