Monsoon Wind Obstruction Explained

The South-West monsoon winds, originating from the Arabian Sea, are crucial for rainfall in India. These winds travel towards the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ).

Role of the Western Ghats

• The Western Ghats, a major mountain range along India's west coast, significantly obstruct the path of these monsoon winds.
• As the winds approach the coast, they are forced to ascend the Western Ghats.
• This forced ascent causes the winds to cool, leading to condensation and heavy rainfall on the western (windward) side of the mountains. This phenomenon is known as orographic rainfall.

Analysis of Other Options

• Great Himalayan range: Located far to the north, it influences the later stages of the monsoon but does not obstruct the initial flow from the Arabian Sea towards the ITCZ.
• Aravalli Range: This range runs diagonally in North-West India and is not positioned or high enough to significantly obstruct the main monsoon flow from the Arabian Sea.
• Eastern Ghats: Located on the east coast, these mountains do not impede the winds coming from the west (Arabian Sea).

Therefore, the Western Ghats act as the primary obstruction causing the South-West monsoon winds to release significant precipitation.