Two important rivers -- one with its source in Jharkhand (and known by a different name in Odisha), and another with its source in Odisha -- merge at a place only a short distance from the coast of Bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. This is an important site of wildlife and biodiversity and a protected area. Which one of the following could be this? (UPSC Prelims 2011)

Question

The correct answer is Bhitarkanika. The two rivers described are the Brahmani and the Baitarani.

The River from Jharkhand: The South Koel river originates in the Chota Nagpur Plateau of Jharkhand. It flows into Odisha, where it joins the Sankh river at Vedvyas (near Rourkela). From this confluence onwards, the river is known as the Brahmani.
The River from Odisha: The Baitarani river originates in the Guptaganga hills (Gonasika) of the Keonjhar district in Odisha.
The Confluence: These two rivers (Brahmani and Baitarani) form a common deltaic plain and merge at a place called Dhamra, just before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

GKToday Admin · Accepted Answer

Bhitarkanika The correct answer is Bhitarkanika. The two rivers described are the Brahmani and the Baitarani.

The River from Jharkhand: The South Koel river originates in the Chota Nagpur Plateau of Jharkhand. It flows into Odisha, where it joins the Sankh river at Vedvyas (near Rourkela). From this confluence onwards, the river is known as the Brahmani.
The River from Odisha: The Baitarani river originates in the Guptaganga hills (Gonasika) of the Keonjhar district in Odisha.
The Confluence: These two rivers (Brahmani and Baitarani) form a common deltaic plain and merge at a place called Dhamra, just before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

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