Understanding the flow direction of rivers is a key aspect of studying the geography of India, particularly the Peninsular Plateau region. Rivers in India generally flow either into the Arabian Sea (west-flowing) or the Bay of Bengal (east-flowing).

Analyzing Indian River Flow Directions

The Western Ghats form a major water divide in peninsular India. Most major rivers originating east of the Western Ghats flow towards the east into the Bay of Bengal. Rivers originating on the western slopes of the Western Ghats, or those that have carved valleys through them, typically flow west into the Arabian Sea. The question asks to identify the river that is NOT a west-flowing river among the given options.

Evaluating the Given River Options

Let's examine the direction of flow for each river mentioned in the options:

• Periyar: This is the longest river in the state of Kerala. It originates in the Western Ghats and flows towards the west, draining into the Arabian Sea.
• Bharatpuzha: Also known as Nila, it is the second-longest river in Kerala. It originates in the Western Ghats and flows generally west, emptying into the Arabian Sea.
• Pamba: The third-longest river in Kerala, the Pamba river also originates in the Western Ghats. It flows westwards and drains into the Vembanad Lake, which is connected to the Arabian Sea.
• Tamraparni: This river is located in the state of Tamil Nadu. It originates in the Agastya Mala hills of the Western Ghats but flows eastward across Tamil Nadu and drains into the Gulf of Mannar, which is part of the Bay of Bengal.

Comparing Flow Directions

Based on the analysis, the flow directions are:

From the table, it is clear that Periyar, Bharatpuzha, and Pamba are west-flowing rivers. The Tamraparni river is an east-flowing river.

Conclusion on West Flowing River

The question asks which river is NOT a west-flowing river. As determined, the Tamraparni river flows towards the east, into the Bay of Bengal. Therefore, it is not a west-flowing river.

Revision Table: South Indian Rivers

Additional Information on Indian Rivers

The drainage system of India is primarily divided into Himalayan rivers and Peninsular rivers. Peninsular rivers are older than the Himalayan ones. They are characterized by fixed courses, absence of meanders, and non-perennial flow (though some are perennial). The west-flowing peninsular rivers are generally shorter and faster compared to the east-flowing ones. The Narmada and Tapi are significant west-flowing rivers that flow through rift valleys.

Major East-Flowing Peninsular Rivers:

• Godavari
• Krishna
• Cauvery (Kaveri)
• Mahanadi
• Tamraparni

Major West-Flowing Peninsular Rivers:

• Narmada
• Tapi (Tapti)
• Sabarmati
• Mahi
• Periyar
• Bharatpuzha
• Pamba

Understanding the origin and terrain these rivers flow through helps determine their direction and characteristics.