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UPSC Prelims 2002 · Indian Geography · Rivers, Lakes and Dams
The correct sequence of the eastward flowing rivers of the peninsular India from north to south is:
- (a) Subarnarekha, Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Pennar, Cauvery and Vaigai
- (b) Subarnarekha, Mahanadi, Krishna, Godavari, Cauvery, Vaigai and Pennar
- (c) Mahanadi, Subarnarekha, Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery, Pennar and Vaigai
- (d) Mahanadi, Subarnarekha, Krishna, Godavari, Cauvery, Vaigai and Pennar
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: (a) Subarnarekha, Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Pennar, Cauvery and Vaigai
Subarnarekha → Mahanadi → Godavari → Krishna → Pennar → Kaveri → Vaigai.
The idea
North–south order is read by latitude. For these east-flowing rivers, their coastal outlets give useful location anchors. River length and basin size do not determine position along the coast.
Why the others are wrong
(b) The Godavari is north of the Krishna.
(c) The Subarnarekha is north of the Mahanadi.
(d) The Subarnarekha is north of the Mahanadi.
The trap
The Pennar is small and easily placed last, but it is north of the Kaveri.
Elimination technique
Godavari must precede Krishna, and Pennar must precede Cauvery. Subarnarekha is also north of Mahanadi; applying these anchors leaves only (a).
Also know
Brahmani and Baitarani are additional Odisha coastal rivers. Nagavali and Vamsadhara drain the Odisha–Andhra belt. Cauvery is also written Kaveri. The north–south coast sequence differs from a ranking by length, so keep the two recall lists separate.
🔒 Mouths north to south: Subarnarekha (Odisha–WB), Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Pennar (Nellore), Kaveri, Vaigai.
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