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Which Is the Biggest River of Himachal Pradesh by Volume of Water?

Which Is the Biggest River of Himachal Pradesh by Volume of Water?

Himachal Pradesh is home to several major Himalayan rivers such as the Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Yamuna, and Chenab. While the Sutlej is the longest river flowing through the state, the Chenab River is considered the biggest river of Himachal Pradesh in terms of volume of water (discharge).


Why Chenab Is the Biggest River by Water Volume?

The Chenab River carries the highest amount of water among all rivers originating or flowing through Himachal Pradesh. This is because:

  • It is fed by multiple large glaciers in the Lahaul–Spiti region
  • It receives water from heavy snowfall and rainfall zones
  • It has several major tributaries such as Bhaga, Chandra, Miyar Khad and Saicher Khad.

Due to its massive discharge, the Chenab plays a crucial role in hydropower generation and irrigation.


Complete Information About the Chenab River

  • The vedic name of Chenab river is ‘Askini’ and sanskrit name is Chandrabhaga.
  • The Chenab River originates in the Lahaul and Spiti district.
  • Chenab enters Chamba district at Bhujind and exits at “Sansari Nala” to enter in Kashmir.

Origin of Chenab River

The Chenab River is formed by the confluence of two rivers:

Chandra River – 

  • Originating from the south east of  Baralacha La Pass
  • The river travels southeast for a substantial distance at the base of this ridge before totally changing direction and flowing south-west through the Spiti Valley.

Bhaga River – originating from the North West of  Baralacha La Pass .

These two rivers meet at Tandi village in Lahaul district of Himachal Pradesh, from where the river is known as Chenab.


Course of the Chenab River

After its formation at Tandi, the Chenab:

  • Flows through the Lahaul and Pangi valleys of Himachal Pradesh
  • Enters Jammu and Kashmir
  • Flows into Pakistan
  • Finally joins the Indus River system

Length of the Chenab River

  • Total Length: Approximately 1200 km
  • Length in Himachal: About 122 km

Major Tributaries of Chenab River

  • Chandra River
  • Bhaga River
  • Miyar Khad
  • Saicher Khad

Importance of Chenab River

  • Biggest river of Himachal Pradesh by water volume
  • Major source of hydroelectric power
  • Supports agriculture downstream
  • Important river under the Indus Water Treaty

Conclusion

Although the Sutlej River is the longest river in Himachal Pradesh, the Chenab River is the biggest river in terms of volume of water. Due to its glacier-fed origin, large tributaries, and massive discharge, the Chenab plays a vital role in hydropower generation, irrigation, and regional ecology.

Thus, the correct answer is: Chenab River.


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