Physiography of Odisha
Odisha Manthan
Introduction
Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India, boasts a diverse and varied physiographic landscape. Its physical geography plays a crucial role in determining the state’s climate, agriculture, biodiversity, and settlement patterns. From fertile coastal plains to rugged mountains, rolling uplands, river valleys, and subdued plateaus, each region has its own unique physical and cultural characteristics.
Understanding Odisha’s physiography is essential for grasping the region’s economic activities, natural resources, and regional development.
The Coastal Plain of Odisha (Utkal Plain)
Location & Extent
- Lies along the eastern coastline of Odisha, stretching from Subarnarekha River in the north to the Rushikulya River in the south.
- Covers about 75,000 sq. km, approximately 24% of the total area of Odisha.
Features
- Known as the “Gift of Six Rivers”—Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani, Subarnarekha, Budhabalanga, and Rushikulya.
- Comprises fertile alluvial soils, deposited by these major rivers.
- Flat and low-lying, ranging from 10 to 50 meters in elevation.
Significance
- Agricultural heartland of Odisha, especially for rice cultivation, often called the “Rice Bowl of Odisha”.
- Major cities and towns like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, Balasore are located here.
- Subject to frequent floods and cyclones due to proximity to the Bay of Bengal.
- Houses important wetlands and lakes such as Chilika Lake (Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon) and Ansupa Lake.
The Middle Mountainous and Highland Region
Location & Extent
- Occupies the western and southwestern parts of Odisha.
- Covers about two-thirds of the state’s total area, stretching from Mayurbhanj in the north to Malkangiri in the south.
Features
- Includes several hill ranges and highlands, notably:
- Eastern Ghats
- Similipal Hills (Mayurbhanj)
- Gandhamardan Hills (Bargarh)
- Niyamgiri Hills (Kalahandi and Rayagada)
- Deomali (Koraput) – Highest peak of Odisha (1672 meters)
Significance
- Rich in minerals—bauxite, iron ore, manganese, and limestone.
- Dense forests and biodiversity hotspots, home to tribal communities like Kondh, Soura, and Bonda.
- Moderate population density, with subsistence agriculture and shifting cultivation (Podu) being prevalent.
The Rolling Uplands
Location & Extent
- Found between the mountainous region and coastal plains.
- Predominantly in northwestern Odisha, particularly in Sundargarh, Sambalpur, and Keonjhar districts.
Features
- Consist of undulating plateaus, low hills, and gently rolling terrain.
- Elevation ranges from 300 to 600 meters above sea level.
Significance
- Known for rich forest cover and mineral deposits (especially iron ore and coal).
- Supports tribal agriculture, minor forest produce collection, and mining activities.
- Faces soil erosion due to deforestation and mining.
The River Valleys
Location & Distribution
- Spread across the interior plains, intersecting the plateaus and uplands.
- Prominent river valleys include those of the Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani, Rushikulya, and Subarnarekha.
Features
- Formed by major rivers and their tributaries, creating fertile floodplains and valleys.
- Highly fertile alluvial soils, ideal for intensive agriculture.
Significance
- Act as agricultural zones, supporting rice, pulses, oilseeds, and horticulture.
- Have facilitated human settlements, urban growth, and transport routes.
- Rivers are tapped for irrigation, hydroelectricity (like Hirakud Dam on Mahanadi), and drinking water.
The Subdued Plateaus
Location & Extent
- Located mainly in the central and western parts of Odisha.
- Found in districts like Kalahandi, Balangir, Nuapada, Boudh, and Phulbani.
Features
- These plateaus are denuded remnants of the once extensive highlands.
- Elevations vary from 300 to 600 meters, with flat-topped hills and broad valleys.
Significance
- Agricultural lands where millets, pulses, and oilseeds are grown.
- Less population density, largely inhabited by tribal communities.
- Face issues like soil infertility, water scarcity, and backwardness in terms of infrastructure.
Conclusion
The physiographic diversity of Odisha has a direct influence on its climate, agriculture, economy, and human settlements. From the fertile coastal plains to the forested mountains, uplands, river valleys, and plateaus, Odisha presents a complex yet fascinating geographical identity. Understanding these distinct regions is crucial for planning development, conserving natural resources, and ensuring inclusive growth.
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Subject: Odisha Manthan
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