RIVERS OF KARNATAKA:

Rivers are a source of water for drinking, irrigation and electricity generation in Karnataka. Most of the rivers originate in the Western Ghats that generally flow westward meet the Arabian Sea after a short run varying from 50 kilometres to 300 kilometres. Almost all the major east-flowing rivers are inter-state rivers and runs towards the eastern side of the state and drain towards the Bay of Bengal.

1. Karnataka State, India

1. Districts

Figure 1c: River basins -
1: Godavari, 2: Krishns, 3: Cauvery, 4: North Pennar, 5: South Pennar, 6: Palar, 7: West flowing rivers

There are seven rivers  (Figure 1c) in Karnataka 

1. Karnataka State, India

1. Districts

1. Forest types

1. Geology

1. Soil types

1. Agro climatic zones

1. Rainfall

Karnataka

Capital

Bangalore

Area

1,91,791 sq. Km (eighth largest state in India);
Districts: 30; Taluks: 220; Villages: 29406; Towns: 270

Length

760 Km. (north -south)

Breadth

420 Km. (east-west)

Physiography

Karavali, the Coastal Plain; Sahyadris, the Western Ghats; Malnad, the Transitional Belt; the Southern Plateau; the Northern Plateau; the Eastern Ghats (http://www.karnataka.com/profile/physiography)

Forest types
(Figure 1c)

Tropical Evergreen, Tropical Semi-evergreen, Dry Deciduous (Malnad), Dry Deciduous(Plateau), Shrub (http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity)

Vegetation types

Wide variety of vegetation formations, ranging from coastal land plants to montane flora of the Western Ghats, four-storied tropical evergreen monsoon forests to arid thorn and scrub. A large chunk of the vegetation of the state is embedded in the sprawling Western Ghats that is also the home to an overwhelming number of plant species with immeasurable biological diversity and a wealth of intricate adaptations. Indeed, a majority of plant species of the Indian subcontinent are represented in the forests of the Western Ghats and account for probably 75% of the state’s plant wealth (http://florakarnataka.ces.iisc.ac.in/hjcb2/karnataka.php).

Geology (Figure 1d)

Four main types of geological formations are: (i) The Archean complex made up of Dharwadschists and granitic gneisses: These cover around 60% of the area of the state and consist of gneisses, granites and charnockite rocks. Some of the minerals found in this region are dolomite, limestone, gabbro, quartzite, pyroxenite, manganese and iron ores and metabasalt, (ii) The Proterozoic non-fossiliferous sedimentary formations of the Kaladgi and Bhima series: The Kaladgi series has horizontal rocks that run for 160 km in the districts of Belgaum, Raichur, Dharwad and Bijapur districts. The Bhima series that is present on either side of the Bhima River consists of rocks containing sandstone, limestone and shale and this is present in the Gulbarga and Bijapur districts, (iii) The Deccan trappean and intertrappean deposits: This is a part of the Deccan traps which were formed by the accumulation of basaltic lava. This is made up of greyish to black augite-basalt, and (iv) The tertiary and recent laterites and alluvial deposits: Laterite capping are found over the Deccan Traps and were formed after the cessation of volcanic activity in the early tertiary period. These are found in many districts in the Deccan plateau and also in the coast (http://www.portal.gsi.gov.in).

Soil types (Figure 1e)

Soil cane be grouped into 9 categories: red sandy soils, red loamy soils, shallow black soils, medium black soils, deep black soils, mixed red and black soils, laterite soils, laterite gravelly soils and coastal alluvium (http://www.nbsslup.in)

Soil order

Alfisols, Andisols, Aridisols, Entisols, Histosols, Inceptisols, Mollisols, Oxisols, Spodosols,Ultisols, Vertisols (http://www.nbsslup.in)

Agro-climatic zones (Fig 1f)

Ten agro climatic zones in Karnataka (http://raitamitra.kar.nic.in) are: (i). North Eastern Transition Zone [Bidar (5) & Gulbarga (2)], (ii). North Eastern Dry Zone [Gulbarga (5) Yadgir (3) & Raichur (3)], (iii). Northern Dry Zone [Koppal (4), Gadag (4), Dharwad (1), Belgaum (5), Bijapur (5), Bagalkot (6), Bellary (7),  Davangere (1), Raichur (2)], (iv). Central Dry Zone [Chitradurga (6),  Davangere (3),  Tumkur (6), Chickmagalur (1), Hassan (1)], (v). Eastern Dry Zone [Bangalore Rural  (4 taluks), Ramanagar (4) Bangalore Urban (3), Kolar (5),  Chikkaballpur (6) Tumkur (2)], (vi). Southern Dry Zone [Mysore (4), Chamarajnagar(4), Mandya (7), Tumkur (2), Hassan (2)], (vii).Southern Transition Zone [Hassan (4), Chickmagalur (1), Shimoga (3), Mysore (3), Davanagere (2)], (viii). Northern Transition Zone [Belgaum (4), Dharwad (3), Haveri (6),   Gadag (1)], (ix). Hilly Zone [U.Kannada (6),  Belgaum (1), Dharwad (1), Haveri (1), Shimoga (4), Chickmangalur (5), Kodagu (3),      Hassan (1)], (x). Coastal Zone [Udupi  (3),  Dakshina Kannada (5), Uttara Kannada (5 taluks)

Climate

Semi-tropical (http://www.karnataka.com/profile/karnataka-climate/)

Seasons

Summer - March to May (18° C to 40° C); Winter -Oct to Dec (14° C to 32° C); South-West Monsoon:  June to August; North-East Monsoon
October to December
(http://www.karnataka.com/profile/karnataka-climate/)

Rainfall (Figure 1g)

500 mm to over 4000 mm. Agumbe in the Central Western Ghats receives the second heaviest annual rainfall (7600 mm) in India (http://www.karnataka.com/profile/karnataka-climate/)

Population

611.31 (approx) (2011), 968 females per 1000 males  (http://censuskarnataka.gov.in)

Population density:

Top three districts in density of population per sq km are Bangalore Urban (4,378), Dakshina Kannada (457), Bangalore Rural (431) and lowest density districts are Chickmagalur (158), Uttara Kannada (140) and Kodagu (135).
(http://censuskarnataka.gov.in)
Population density in other districts is: Mysore (441), Dharwad (434), Kolar (384), Mandya (365), Belgaum (356), Haveri (331), Davangere (329), Bidar (312), Udupi (304), Ramanagaram (303), Chickballapur (298), Bagalkot (288), Hassan (261), Tumkur (253), Koppal (250), Gulbarga (233), Gadag (229), Raichur (228), Yadgir (224), Bijapur (207), Shimoga (207), Chamarajangar (200) and Chitradurga (197) (http://censuskarnataka.gov.in)

Literacy

75.60 % (female literacy: 68.13%; male literacy 82.85%) (http://censuskarnataka.gov.in)

Traditional Products

Coffee, silk, sandalwood, agarbathis, ivory carvings, etc.

Major Crops

Ragi, jowar, rice; sugarcane, coconut, groundnuts; coffee; cotton
(http:// raitamitra.kar.nic.in/agriprofile/table10.htm)

Major Minerals

Gold (90% of India's production), iron ore, manganese, bauxite
(http:// http://www.karnataka.com/profile/mineral-resource/)

Roads

Total length of roads: 1,22,489 kms; National Highways: 2,357 kms; State Highways: 28,311 kms; Major District roads: 2,090 kms

Languages

Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Urdu, Marathi, Tulu, Kodagu, Konkani, Hindi

River systems

Karnataka has seven river systems and their tributaries flowing through the state. The river systems of Karnataka are: Cauvery, Godavari, Krishna, North Pennar, South Pennar, Palar, The West Flowing Rivers. Karnataka has 26 east flowing rivers and 10 west flowing rivers. The west flowing rivers of Karnataka provide 60% of the state’s inland water resources. (http://www.karnataka.com/rivers/)

• Northern Karnataka Plateau: This region is mainly composed of the Deccan trap and covers the districts of Belgaum, Bidar, Bijapur and Gulbarga. It represents an extensive deforested plateau landscape. The Northern Karnataka Plateau has an elevation of 300 m to 600 m asl. The plateau slopes towards the east. The landscape is mainly covered with rich black cotton soils. The vast expanse of treeless plateau is interspersed with river plains, watersheds, residual hills and ridges. The river plains are represented by those of River Bhima, River Ghataprabha, River Krishna and River Malaprabha.

Karnataka Coastal Region: The coastal belt starts from the Western Ghats in the west and extends till the edge of the Karnataka Plateau in the east and includes Uttara Kannada, Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts. The terrain consists of rivers, creeks, waterfalls, ranges of hills and peaks. This region can be divided into two main geographical divisions, known as the Western Ghats and the plains. The coastal belt has an average width of 50 km to 80 km and covers a distance of around 267 km from north to south.

• Central Karnataka Plateau:  This region is located between the Northern Karnataka Plateau and the Southern Karnataka Plateau and consists of districts like Bellary, Chikmagalur, Chitradurga, Dharwad, Raichur and Shimoga. The elevation varies between 450 m to 700 m asl and slope towards the east. This region is the location of the Tungabhadra River basin.

• Southern Karnataka Plateau: This region is covered by a high degree of slope and encircled by the Western Ghats on the west and the south. Southern plateau includes the districts of Bangalore Urban, Bangalore Rural, Hassan, Kodagu, Kolar, Mandya, Mysore and Tumkur.. The Southern Karnataka Plateau has a general elevation of 600 m to 900 m asl, except Biligirirangan hills (of Mysore district) and Brahmagiri range (of Kodagu district) have elevation ranging between 1,500 m to 1,750 m. The Cauvery River basin forms a significant part of this plateau.

• Hydrogeology: The state is covered by peninsular gneisses, granites, schists, and basalts along with sedimentaries of Kaldagi and Bhima groups.  The recent alluvium is restricted to coastal areas and stream courses. The water bearing and yield characteristics in hard rock are primarily controlled by the extent of weathering and fracturing. In limestone areas, solution cavities impart secondary porosity. The yield of tube wells tapping hard rocks is as high as 50 m3/hr. The tube wells in sedimentaries can yield up to 15 m3/hr (http://cgwb.gov.in/gw_profiles/st_karnataka.html).

Enactment of Ground Water Bill to regulate and control the development of ground water (http://www.groundwaters.in/regulations):   Government of Karnataka came up with a new regulation for groundwater in 2009. 2009 bill is a significant shift from 1999 act which was focused solely on drinking water protection. 2009 bill emphasizes on regulation and control of groundwater development and management. This 2009 bill was later passed as an act in 2011 and came to be recognized as Karnataka Groundwater regulations and control of development and management act, 2011. Highlights of this act includes (i) restriction and regulation of extraction of groundwater in the notified area; (ii) Specification of the minimum distance between the bore wells dug for the purpose of irrigation; (iii) Registration of existing and new borewells with the authority within 120 days of formation of authority; (iv)  Declaration by notification any areas as drought hit areas; etc.

River Systems of Karnataka:

The rivers are a source of water for drinking, irrigation and electricity generation in Karnataka. Most of the rivers originate in the Western Ghats that generally flow westward meet the Arabian Sea after a short run varying from 50 kilometres to 300 kilometres (http:// http://waterresources.kar.nic.in/river_systems.htm#map).  These rivers are very steep in the upper reaches and fairly steep in the middle reaches. Near the sea, they have relatively flat gradients and a mild flood plain. Almost all the major east-flowing rivers are inter-state rivers and runs towards the eastern side of the state and drain towards the Bay of Bengal.

River basins: 1: Godavari, 2: Krishns, 3: Cauvery, 4: North Pennar, 5: South Pennar, 6: Palar, 7: West flowing rivers

There are seven river systems in Karnataka. 

Sl. No.

Name of the tributary

Catchment  
Sq.kms

Origin , Altitude  & Length

Sub-tributaries

Name of the state

1

Ghataprabha

8829

Western Ghats,   884 m, 283 kms

Hiranyakeshi, Markandeya

Maharshatra, Karnataka

2

Malaprabha

11549

Western Ghats,  792.48 m, 306 kms

Bennihalla, Hirehalla, Tas nadi

Karnataka

3

Bhima

70,614

Western Ghats, 945 m, 861 kms

Combined waters of      Mula and Mutha Ghod, Nira,Sina

Maharastra, Karnataka

4

Tungabhadra

47,866

Western Ghats at Gangamula, 1198 m, 531 kms

Combined waters of Tunga and Bhadra, Varada, Hagari (vedavathy)

Karnataka & Andhra Pradesh

Sl. No.

Tributary

Catchment area in Sq.kms.

Origin , Altitude

Sub-tributaries

state

1

 Manjra (tributary of Godavari)

15,667 Sq.kms Maharastra, 
4,406 Sq.kms -Karnataka, 
10,772 Sq.kms -Andhra Pradesh

Bala Ghat range of hills,  823m 

Tirina,Karanja, Haldi,Lendi & Mannar

Maharastra, Karnataka & Andhra Pradesh

Name of the tributary

Catchment area in Sq.kms.

Origin , Length 

Sub-tributaries

State

Uttara Pinakini (North Pennar River )

6937

Nandi hills of Kolar, 597km

Jayamangali, Kumadavathy, Chitravathy and  Papagni 

Karnataka,   Andhra Pradesh

l. No.

Name of the tributary

Catchment area in   Sq.kms

Origin 

Sub-tributaries

Name of the state

1

South Pennar 

 4370

Nandi hills of Kolar

-

Karnataka, Tamil Nadu 

Name of the tributary

Catchment area in Sq.kms.

Origin , Altitude & Length

Sub-tributaries

Name of the state

1

Mahadayi/ Mandavi

2,032

Western Ghats, Belgaum district,       600 m          87 kms.

 Maderi

Karnataka,
Goa 

2

Kalinadi

4,188

Western Ghats, Bidi village, 600 m, 153 kms.

Pandhari, Tatti-halla and Nagi

Karnataka

3

Gangavalli (Bedthi)

3,574

Western Ghats south Of Dharwad    700 m, 152 kms.

-

Karnataka

4

Aghanashini (Tadri)

1,330

Western Ghats Near Sirsi,  500 m   84 kms.

-

Karnataka

5

Sharavathi

3,592

Westren Ghats Ambutirtha in Shimoga district,       700 m, 128 kms.

-

Karnataka

6

Chakra Nadi

336

East of Kodachadri in Shimoga district,       600 m,  52 kms.

Kollur

Karnataka

7

Varahi       (Haladi)

759

Kavaledur-ga in the Shimoga district,       600 m,  66 kms

-

Karnataka

8

Netravathy

3,222

Bellarayan-a Durga in the Dakshina Kannada, 1,000 m, 103 kms

Gundiahole, Kumaradara and Shisiahole. 

Karnataka

9

Barapole (Valapattanam)

1,867

Brahamagiri Ghat Reserve Forest in Coorg, 900 m, 110 kms

  -

Karnataka & Kerala

Independent streams between Sharavathi and Chakra rivers joining the Arabian Sea.  

Swarna, Seethanadhi, Mulki river, Pavanje, Nadisalu, Gurpur,Yennehole and Madisalhole.

Independent streams  between Varahi and Netravathi rivers

Chandragiri (Payaswani) and Shiriya river.  The Chandragiri rises west of Mercara in Coorg District of Karnataka State at an elevation of about 600 Mts.  Pyayaswani River originates from Patti Ghats reserve forest in Coorg District of Karnataka at an elevation of 1350 Mts.   The two river joins together at Machipana about 15 kms upstream of their out fall point into Arabian sea near Kasaragud.  It drains catchment area of 1406 Sq kms out of which 836 Sq kms lies in Karnataka state and the balance portion in Kerala state.

Streams between Netravathy and Chandragiri (Payaswani) 

2.0

Aghanashini

1

Geography

River Aghanashini is located in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka (Figure 1). Originating at Sirsi (Figure 2) (Ramachandra et al 2015). Aghanashini river origin in Sirsi and flows for a distance of nearly 117 km  before it joins Arabian Sea at Tadri, Belegadde/Kirubele-Kumta (Uttara Kannada) (Figure 2).
Tributaries of Aghanashini include, Bakurhole, Donihalla, Chandika hole, Masti mane halla, Benne holé, Badala, Divalli, Santeguli, Hulidevara kodalu and many more. Aghanashini river has a catchment area of 1449 sq.km spread across districts of Uttara Kannada (Kumta, Sirsi, Siddapura, Ankola) and Shimoga (Sorba).

Figure 1: Aghanashini River Location

Figure 2: Overlay of Google Earth

Figure 3: Topography
Topography of Aghanashini river catchment is as depicted in Figure 3, elevation ranges between < 0m and 786m w.r.t Mean Sea Level, slope of the catchment varies up to 119%. Very high slope we observed in the Ghats (Devi mane Ghat).
The variations in the terrain has led to formation of various water falls such as the Burude falls, Dabbe falls, Waate halla, Benne holé falls, Unchalli falls (Ramachandra et al 2015, Balachandran et al, 2012, www. welcomenri.com, www.dreamroutes.org) etc.
Rock types: Granites to schists, shale, quartzite’s, Phyllites.
Ores: Iron, limestone, bauxite, quartz, limestone, sand, clay, lime shell, Manganese, Asbestos, Mica.
Soil: Red Soil, Lateritic soils, Black soil, etc

2

Rainfall and Water Yield

Rainfall assessment in Aghanashini catchment (Figure 4) indicates that rainfall in the catchment is orographic with annual rainfall varying spatially between 2500mm at the plains of Sirsi, to over 6300 mm at the Ghats. Water yield in the catchment is about 28-41 TMC (and is showing declining trend with the changes in the land uses in the catchment)

Figure 4: Rainfall

3

Anthropology

Population in the catchment (Figure 5) has increased from 2,21,562 in 2001 to 2,41,884 in 2011 (Census of India) and is projected to increase to 2,53,135 in the year 2016 at a growth rate of 9.2% per decade. Population density in the catchment is 175 persons per square kilometer as on 2016. Major Population is contained at towns such as Sirsi, Gokarna and Kumta.
Communities: Kumri Marati, Goudas, Konkanis. Havyaka Brahmin, Namadhari Naik, Goud Saraswat Brahmin, Nadavas, Kurubas, Siddis, Daivajna, Muslims etc. (Chandran and Hughes 2000, Wikipedia, Gazetter of India-Uttara Kannada district). 

Figure 5: Population dynamics in Aghanashini river catchment

4

History, Culture, Heritage

River Aghanashini has history beyond the Himalayas i.e., 88 Million year compared to Himalayas (50 Million years). Mirjan was known as trading hub for spices such as pepper, cardamom, etc
The word Aghanashini means Destroyer of Sins.
Culture

• Festivals and Jatras: Uura habba (Village Festival), Nadi habba (River festival), Bandi habba, Vadya Panchami, Mahamay jatra, Durga devi jatra, Kannika parameshwari jatra, Shantika parameshwari jatra, Venkataramana jatra, etc
• Dance: Folk dances (suggi kunita), bharatha natya, Kolata, bedara kunita, dhamami kunita, Huli kunita, Yakshagana, Masti Kunita, Preta kuntia, Bedara kunita, Mandala kunita, etc
• Music: Folk Songs, Garatiya Haadu, Halliya Haadu, Nadapadagalu, Bingina pada, Gumatepada, Jogavve haadu, Doni pada, Jogi pada, Badi vadya etc.
• Traditional Games: Kallata, kavade, Channe mane, Karu aata, Katte aata, Hulighatta, Bandi aata, Devarata, Sariya mugila aata, Achchu aata, Chowkabara, Tabalamane, etc.

Major temples in the catchment of Aghanashini includes: Veknateshwara Temple (Majguni - one of the origin of river Aghanashni), Gokarna, Babbru lingeshwara (worshiped by fishermen), Devi mane, and many deities of the sacred groves. Places like Mirjan fort once provided defenses at the coasts

5

Land use dynamics

Land use analysis between 1970’s till 2016 show that the catchment forest cover is reducing due to intense anthropogenic activities such as logging, plantation, etc. Figure 6 depicts FCC in the catchment of 1975 and 2016. Figure 7 and Table 1 depicts land use changes in the catchment between 1973 and 2016.

Figure 6: False colour composite (FCC) of the River basin

Figure 7: Land use dynamics in Aghanashini Catchment
Table1: Land use dynamics in Aghanashini Catchment

6

Agriculture, Irrigation

Variety of Paddy, Sugar cane, Banana, Arecanut, Coconut, Mango, spices, etc.

7

Diversions

Fortunately, senseless river diversion has not happened. However, there is now illogical proposal (by individuals who lacks knowledge of river hydrology and people’s livelihood and known for mismanagement of natural resources) to divert water to dying city - Bangalore

8

Bio Diversity

Aghanashini river has no diversion works or dams along the river, due to which the estuary is highly productive with rich diversity of Fishes yielding over 43 crore rupee per annum (Mahima et al, 2012), Insects (Balachandran et al, 2012), Bivalves (Table 4) yielding over rupee 5 crores per year (Boominathan et al, 2008), Flora (http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new/) .
Fishes: Mahima et al, 2012
Ambassis commersoni , Apogon hyalosoma, Arius arius, Arius sps, Austrobatrachus dussumeri, Carangoides sps, Carangoids chrysophrys, Carangoids preustus, Caranx praeustus (Marine), Cephalophalis boenak, Cybium commersoni, Cynoglossus macrostomus,  Eel, Etroplus suretansis, Gerres limbatus, Gerries filamentosus, Glossogobius giuris, Lactarius lactarius, Lates calcarifer EST-MAR, Liza parsia, Lutjanus argentimaculatus, Lutjanus johni, Lutjanus ruselli, Monopterus albus, Mugil cephalus, Nemipterus japonicas, Opisthopterus tardoore, Otolithus ruber, Pampus argenteus, Paraplagusia biliniata, Parastromateus niger, Platax orbicularis, Platycephalus scaber, Pomadasys maculatus, Pseudorhombus javanicus, Rastrilliger kanagurta, Rhinobatus halavi, Rhinobatus sps, Sardinella fimbriata, Scatophagus argus, Scolidon sps, Secutor insidator, Siganus vermiculatus, Sillago sihama, Sphyraena barracuda, Sphyraena obtusata, Sphyraena spp, Stoliphorus commersoni, Stoliphorus indicus, Strongylura leiura, Synaptura commersoniana, Terapon jarbua.
Insects: Balachandran et al, 2012.
Isonychia  sp., Choroterpes sp., Thraulus sp., Isca sp., Notophlebia sp., Edmundsula sp., Petersula sp., Afronurus sp., Thalerosphyrus sp., Cinygmina sp., Ephemerella (Torleya) sp., Ephemerella (Drunella) sp., Baetis sp., Platybaetis sp., Caenis sp., Clypocaenis bisetosa, Cheumatopsyche sp., Hydropsyche sp., Lepidostoma sp., Helicopsyche sp., Psychomyia sp., Wormaldia sp., Neoperla sp., Naucoris sp., Micronecta sp., Eubrianax sp., Noterus sp.,Stenocolus , Dineutus sp., Orectochilus sp., Laccobius sp., Euphaea sp., Heliogomphus sp., Lamelligomphus sp., Crocothemis sp., Hexatoma sp., Pilaria sp., Chironomus sp., Simulium sp., Coridalus sp.
Bivalves: Boominathan et al, 2008
Paphia malabarica, Katelysia opima, Meretrix meretrix, Meretrix casta, Villorita cyprinoides, Arca granosa, Crassostrea sp., Perna viridis.
Flora: http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new (Sirsi, Kumta, Siddapura Taluks) Forest types found in the district are: Evergreen, Semi Evergreen, Moist Deciduous, Scrub, Thorny, un wooded with following species.
Acronychia pedunculata,  Actinodaphne hookeri,  Actinodaphne sp,  Aglaia ananmallayana,  Aglaia lawii,  Aglaia roxburghiana,  Aglaia sp,  Ailanthus excelsa,  Alseodaphne semicarpifolia,  Alstonia scholaris,  Ancistrocladus hamatus,  Antiaris toxicaria,  Antidesma menasu,  Aporosa lindleyana,  Archidendron bigeminum,  Artabotrys hexapetalus,  Artocarpus gomezianus,  Artocarpus heterophyllus,  Artocarpus hirsutus,  Atlantia racemosa,  Beilschmiedia fagifolia,  Bischofia  javanica,  Blachia sp,  Bombax ceiba,  Bridelia crenulata,  Buchania lanzan,  Calicopteris floribunda,  Callicarpa tomentosa,  Calophyllum apetalum,  Calophyllum polyanthum,  Calophyllum tomentosum,  Canarium strictum,  Canthium dicoccum,  Carallia brachiata,  Careya arborea,  Carissa inermis,  Caryota urens,  Casearia championii,  Casearia sp,  Cassia fistula,  Cassine glauca,  Chrysophyllum roxburghii,  Cinnamomum macrocarpum,  Cinnamomum malabathricum,  Cinnamomum verum,  Cinnamomum zeylanicum,  Clausena SP,  Cleidion javanicum,  Combretum latifolium,  Cryptocarya wightiana,  Dalbergia latifolia,  Dalbergia rubiginosa,  Dalbergia sp,  Dalbergia sympathetica,  Derris scandens,  Derris sp,  Dillenia pentagyana,  Dimocarpus longan,  Diospyros assimilis,  Diospyros buxifolia,  Diospyros candolleana,  Diospyros crumenata,  diospyros ebenum,  Diospyros melanoxylon,  Diospyros montana,  Diospyros oocarpa,  Diospyros paniculata,  Diospyros pruriens,  Diospyros saldanhae,  Diospyros sp,  Diospyros sylvatica,  Dipterocarpus indicus,  Drypetes confertiflora,  Drypetes venusta,  Dysoxylum,  Dysoxylum binectariferum,  Dysoxylum malabaricum,  Elaeagnus conferta,  Elaeocarpus serratus,  Elaeocarpus tuberculatus,  Emblica officinalis,  Entada pursaetha,  Ervatamia heyneana,  Erycibe paniculata,  Euonymus indicus,  Ficus callosa,  Ficus nervosa,  Flacourtia montana,  Garcinia gummi_gutta,  Garcinia indica,  Garcinia morella,  Garcinia talbotii,  Glochidion johnstonei,  Glochidion sp,  Glochidion zeylanicum,  Gnetum ula,  Grewia sp,  Grewia tiliifolia,  Gymnacranthera canarica,  Harpullia imbricata,  Holigarna arnotiana,  Holigarna beddomii,  Holigarna ferruginea,  Holigarna grahamii,  Homalium ceylanicum,  Hopea parviflora,  Hopea ponga,  Hopea wightiana,  Hydnocarpus laurifolia,  Ixora arborea,  Ixora brachiata,  Knema attenuata,  Lagerstroemia lanceolata,  Lagerstroemia microcarpa,  Lepisanthes tetraphylla,  Linociera malabarica,  Litsea floribunda,  Litsea laevigata,  Litsea mysorensis,  Litsea wightiana,  Lophopetalum wightianum,  Macaranga peltata,  Madhuca longifolia,  Mallotus phillipinesis,  Mammea suriga,  Mangifera indica,  Margaritaria indica,  Mastixia arborea,  Meiogyne pannosa,  Meliaceae sp,  Memecylon talbotianum,  Memecylon umbellatum,  Mesua ferrea,  Mimusops elengi,  Moullava spicata,  Murraya paniculata,  Myristica dactyloides,  Myristica malbarica,  Neolitsea scrobiculata,  Nothapodytes  foetida,  Nothopegia colebrookeana,  Nothopegia racemosa,  Odina wodier,  Olea dioica,  Pajanalia longifolia,  Palaquim ellipticum,  Persia macarantha,  Phyllanthus emblica,  Pittosporum dasycaulon,  Polyalthia fragrance,  Polyalthia sp,  Pongamia pinnata,  Prunus ceylanica,  Pterocarpus marsupium,  pterospermum acerifolium,  Pterospermum diversifolium,  Pterospermum reticulatum,  Randia dumetorum;,  Randia rugulosa,  Sageraea laurina,  Salacia macrosperma,  Salacia oblonga,  Sapindus emarginatus,  Schleichera oleosa,  Semecarpus Kathlekanensis,  Sterculia guttata,  Stereospermum personatum,  Stereospermum tetragonum,  Strombosia ceylanica,  Symplocos racemosa,  Syzigium caryophyllatum,  Syzygium cumini,  Syzygium gardneri,  Syzygium hemesphericum,  Syzygium laetum,  Syzygium macrocephala,  Syzygium sp,  Tectona grandis,  Terminalia alata,  Terminalia bellirica,  Terminalia chebula,  Terminalia paniculata,  Tetrameles nudiflora,  Tetrastigma gamblei,  Toddalia asiatica var  floribunda,  Toona ciliata,  Trewia nudiflora,  Vateria indica,  Ventilago madraspatana,  Vepris bilocularis,  Vitex altissima,  Walsura  trifoliolata,  Xantolis tomentosa,  Xeromorphis spinosa,  Xylia xylocarpa, 
Fauna: : http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new
Mammals: Tiger, Black Panther, Leopard, Bison, Gaur, Hare, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Deer, Thar, Bonnet Macaque, Lion Tailed Macaque, Giant Squirrel, Hanuman Languor.
Reptiles: Snakes (Vipers, Cobra, Rat snake, Crate, King cobra, Python, Wolf snake, etc), Monitor Lizard.

9

References

• Survey of India Topographic Sheets, 1:50000 scale.
• Water Resource Information System of India, http://www.india-wris.nrsc.gov.in.
• Google Earth, https://www.google.com/earth/.
• Ramachandra, T.V., Chandran, M. D, S., Joshi, N. V., Karthick, B., and Vishnu, D. M., 2015, Ecohydrology of Lotic Systems in Uttara Kannada, Central Western Ghats, India, Environmental Management of River Basin Ecosystems – Earthy System Science, 621-655.
• Census of India, 2001 and 2011, censusindia.gov.in.
• Wild Wonderful Karnataka, http://www.dreamroutes.org/western/burudefalls.html.
• Balachandran, C., Dinakaran, S., Chandran, M. D. S., and Ramachnadra, T. V., 2012, Diversity and Distribution of Aquatic Insects in Aghanashini River of Central Western Ghats, India, National Conference on Conservation and Management of Wetland Ecosystems – LAKE 2012, 6th to 8th November 2012, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala.
• Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirsi,_Karnataka.
• Mahima, B., Nayak, V. N., Chandran, M. D. S., and Ramachnadra, T. V., 2012, Impact of Hydroelectric Dams on Fisheries in the Sharavathi Estuary of Uttara Kannada District, National Conference on Conservation and Management of Wetland Ecosystems – LAKE 2012, 6th to 8th November 2012, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala.
• Boominathan, M., Chandran, M. D. S., and Ramachandra, T. V., 2008, Economic Valuation of Bivalves in the Aghanashini Estuary, West Coast, Karnataka, Sahyadri Conservation Series 9, ENVIS Technical Report: 301, November 20082, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012.
• Chandran, M. D S., Ramachandra, T. V, Joshi, N. V., Rao, G. R, Prakash, N. M., Balachandran, C., and Sumesh, N. D., 2012. Conservation Reserve Status to Lateritic Plateaus of Coastal Uttara Kannada., Sahyadri Conservation Series 21, ENVIS Technical Report: 51, November 2012, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012.
• ENVIS Sahyadri Web Portal, http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new/
• Chandran, M. D. S., and Hughes, J. D., 2000, Sacred Groves and Conservation: The Comparative History of Traditional Reserves in the Mediterranean Area and in South India, Environment and History, 6, 2, 169–186.
• Gazetter of India, Uttara Kannada district, 1985
• https://www.researchgate.net/profile/T_V_Ramachandra/publications
• http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy
• http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity

3.0

Kali

1

Geography

River Kali is located in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka (Figure 1). Originating at Diggi Vilalge - Supa (Figure 2), Kali flows for a distance of nearly 184 km (Amit et al 2008, Survey of India Topographic sheets, Gazetteer of India- Karnataka State – Uttara Kannada) before it joins Arabian Sea at Karwar (Uttara Kannada) (Figure 2).
Tributaries of Kali include, Pandrali, Kali, Tattihala, Vaki, Kaneri, Thananala, Kariholé and many more. Kali river has a catchment area of 5085.9 sq.km spread across districts of Uttara Kannada (Ankola, Karwar, Supa, Yellapur, Haliyal), Dharwad (Kalgatgi, Dharwad) and Belgaum (Khanapura, Bialhongal).

Figure 1: Kali River

Figure 2: Overlay of Google Earth

Figure 3: Topography
Topography of Kali river catchment is as depicted in Figure 3, elevation ranges between < 0m and 1023 m w.r.t Mean Sea Level, slope of the catchment varies up to 139%. Very high slope we observed in the Ghats (Anshi-Dandeli Ghat).
The variations in the terrain has led to formation of various water falls such as the Sathodi Falls, Nagarmadi falls, Devkar falls, Anshi water fall etc.
Rock types: Granites to schists, shale, quartzite’s, Phyllites.
Ores: Iron, limestone, bauxite, quartz, limestone, sand, clay, lime shell, Manganese, Asbestos, Mica.
Soil: Red Soil, Lateritic soils, Black soil, etc

2

Rainfall and Water Yield

Rainfall assessment in Kali catchment (Figure 4) indicates that rainfall in the catchment is orographic with annual rainfall varying spatially between 946 mm at the plains of Dharwad, to over 5951 mm at the Ghats of Anshi-Dandeli.
Water yield in the catchment is 35 - 75 TMC

Figure 4: Rainfall

3

Anthropology

Population in the catchment (Figure 5) has increased from 497892 in 2001 to 542036 in 2011 (Census of India) and is projected to increase to 566065 in the year 2016 at a growth rate of 8.8% per decade. Population density in the catchment is 111.3 persons per square kilometer as on 2016. Major Population is contained at towns such as Dandeli, Haliyar, Dharwad, Karwar, Yellapura, Ramnagar, Virje, Majali, Ammadalli.
Communities: Ambiga, Arer, Bandi, Bedar, Bandaris, Brahmins, Devadiga, Devalis, Gabit, Ganiga, Gouli, Gudikar, Harikanta, Hulsvara, Kahrvi, Vaishyas, Maratha, Kumri Maratha, Lingayath,, Maratha Kubri, Nadava, Namdharis, Padits, Gidbudukis, Siddis, Buddists, Jains, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, etc (Chandran and Hughes 2000, Wikipedia, Gazetter of India-Uttara Kannada district). 

Figure 5: Population dynamics in Kali river catchment

4

History, Culture, Heritage

River Kali has history beyond the Himalayas i.e., 88 Million year compared to Himalayas (50 Million years).
Culture

• Festivals and Jatras: Kurumgad jatra, Karavali utsava, karwar utsava,  Uura habba (Village Festival), Nadi habba (River festival), Bandi habba, Vadya Panchami, Mahamay jatra, Durga devi jatra, Kannika parameshwari jatra, Shantika parameshwari jatra, Venkataramana jatra, etc
• Dance: Folk dances (suggi kunita), bharatha natya, Kolata, bedara kunita, dhamami kunita, Huli kunita, Yakshagana, Masti Kunita, Preta kuntia, Bedara kunita, Mandala kunita, etc
• Music: Folk Songs, Garatiya Haadu, Halliya Haadu, Nadapadagalu, Bingina pada, Gumatepada, Jogavve haadu, Doni pada, Jogi pada, Badi vadya etc.
• Traditional Games: Kallata, kavade, Channe mane, Karu aata, Katte aata, Hulighatta, Bandi aata, Devarata, Sariya mugila aata, Achchu aata, Chowkabara, Tabalamane, etc.

Major temples in the catchment of Kali includes: Uluvi, Shanthadurga temple, Kavale Caves, etc.

5

Land use dynamics

Land use analysis of 2013 show that the catchment forest cover is about 55 % (about 38% covered with evergreen species). Figure 6 depicts FCC of the catchment, Figure 7 and Table 1 depicts land use in the catchment as on 2013.

Figure 6: False colour composite

Figure 7: Land use in Kali Catchment
Table1: Land use of Kali Catchment

6

Agriculture, Irrigation

Variety of Paddy, Sugar cane, Banana, Arecanut, Coconut, Mango, spices, etc.

7

Diversions /Reservoirs

Supa, Kodasalli, Tattihalla, Bommanalli Balancing Reservoir, Kaneri, Kadra.

8

Bio Diversity

Anshi Dandeli is Tiger Reserve, habitat of wild elephants, Hornbill reserves and also wild life corridor.
Bivalves: Ramachandra et al, 2012, http://www.cmfri.org.in
Paphia malabarica, Meretrix meretrix, Meretrix casta, Villorita cyprinoides, Arca granosa, Polymesoda erosa, Oysters, Perna viridis
Flora: Chandran et al 2012, http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new Forest types found in the district are: Evergreen, Semi Evergreen, Moist Deciduous, Scrub, Thorny, un wooded with following species.
Acacia auriculiformis,  Acanthus ilicifolius,  Aegiceras corniculatum,  Albizia lebbeck,  Alseodaphne semicarpifolia,  Alstonia scholaris,  Alysicarpus  vaginalis,  Anacardium occidentale.,  Anogeisus latifolia,  Aporosa lindleyana,  Aristalochia  indica,  Artabotrys  zeylanica,  Artocarpus heterophyllus,  Artocarpus hirsutus,  Arundinella  metzii,  Atalantia racemosa,  Avicinnia officinalis,  Bacopa  monnieri,  Bambusa sp.,  Barringtonia acutangula,  Bauhinia racemosa,  Blyxa  aubertii ,  Bombax ceiba,  Breynia  retusa,  Bridelia  scandens,  Bridelia crenulata,  Bridelia retusa,  Bridelia scandens,  Buchanania lanzan,  Calicopteris floribunda,  Callicarpa wightii,  Calophyllum inophyllum,  Calophylum wightii,  Canscora  decurrens,  Canthium dicoccum,  Canthium parviflorum,  Caralia antigerrima,  Carallia brachiata,  Careya arborea,  Carissa  carandas,  Caryota urens,  Casearia rubescens,  Cassia fistula,  Cassia tora,  Centranthera indica,  Cinnamum macrocarpum,  Clerodendrum  inerme,  Clerodendrum  paniculatum,  Cordia myxa,  Crotalaria filipes,  Crotalaria lutescens,  Crotalaria retusa,  Cyperus  compressus ,  Cyperus  difformis ,  Cyperus  halpan ,  Cyperus  malaccensis,  Cyperus iria ,  Dactyloctenium aegyptium,  Dalbergia horrida,  Dalbergia latifolia,  Derris scandens,  Derris trifoliate    ,  Desmodium  triflorum,  Desmodium laxiflorum,  Dilenia pentagyna,  Dillenia pentagyna,  Dillinia pentagyna,  Dimeria  hohenackeri,  Dimeria  ornithopoda,  Diospyros montana,  Diospyros paniculata,  Diospyros pruriens,  Dolichondrone spathaceae,   Elaeocarpus serratus,  Eleocharis  acutangula ,  Embelia ribes,  Epaltes  divaricata,  Eragrostis  uniloides,  Ervatamia heyneana,  Eupatorium odoratum,  Euphorbia notoptera,  Excoecaria agallocha,  Ficus arnottiana,  Ficus drupacea,  Ficus hisda,  Ficus sp.,  Ficus tinctoria,  Fimbristylis bisumbellata ,  Fimbristylis ferruginea,  Fimbristylis tetragona ,  Fimbristylis dichotoma,  Flacourtia indica,  Flacourtia montana,  Fuirena  ciliaris ,  Garcinia indica,  Geissaspis cristata,  Glochidion sp.,  Gloriosa  superba,  Glycosmis pentaphylla,  Glyphochloa  acuminata,  Gnedia glauca,  Grewia microcos,  Grewia tiliaefolia,  Grewia tilifolia,  Gymnema sylvestre,  Hedyotis  herbacea,  Helicteres isora,  Hemidesmus indicus,  Holarrhena antidysenterica,  Holigarna arnotiana,  Hopea ponga,  Hopea wightiana,  Hoppea dichotoma,  Hydnocarpus laurifolia,  Hydnocarpus,  Ichnocarpus frutescens,  Isacne  globosa ,  Ischaemum   indicum,  Ixora arborea,  Ixora brachiata,  Ixora coccinea,  Justica  simplex,  Kandelia candel,  Kyllinga  melanosperma ,  Lagerstroemia microcarpa,  Lagerstroemia  microcarapa,  Lagerstromia lanceolata,  Lagerstromia microcarpa,  Lannea coromandelica,  Lea indica,  Lea robust,  Lea sp,  Leucas lavandulifolia,  Lindernia crustacea,  Lindernia tenuifolia,  Litsea laevigata,  Lobelia  alsinoides,  Lobelia nicotianifolia,  Ludwigia  perennis,  Macaranga peltata,  Madhuca neriifolia,  Mallotus phillipensis,  Mallotus,  Mammea suriga,  Mangifera indica,  Mariscus  javanicus ,  Mellotus phillipinesis,  Memecylon talbotianum,  Memycelon sp.,  Mimosa  pudica,  Mimusops elengi,  Moullava spicata,  Moulva spicata,  Movalva spicata,  Murraya koenghii,  Myristica malabarica,  Nothapodytes  foetida,  Nymphaea nouchali,  Ochlandra,  Ocimum canum,  Odina wodier,  Olea dioica,  Oplismenus  burmanii,  Paspalum   scrobiculatum,  Phyllanthus  simplex,  Phyllanthus emblica,  Phyllanthus urinaria,  Piper  nigrum,  Polyalthia fragrans,  Pongamia pinnata,  Porteresia  coarctata,  Portulaca oleracea,  Pseudanthistiria umbellata ,  Psidium guajava,  Pycreus  pumilus ,  Pycreus  sanguinolentus ,  Pycreus  stramineus ,  Pycreus   polystachyos,  Randia dumatorum,  Rauvolfia serpetina,  Rhizophora apiculata,  Rhizophora mucronata,  Rhynchospora  wightiana,  Rhynchostylis   retusa,  Sapindus  laurifolia,  Sapium  insigne,  Saraca asoca,  Schleichera oleosa,  Schoenoplectus  lateriflorus ,  Sida acuta,  Smilax zeylanica,  Smithia  hirsuta,  Sonneratia caseolaris,  Spaeranthus  indicus,  Spermacoce  articularis,  Spermacoce  verticillata,  Sphenoclea Zeylanica,  Sporobolus  virginicus ,  Stereospermum personatum,  Streblus asper,  Striga lutea,  Strobilanthus heyneana,  Strobilanthus,  Strychnos nux-vomica,  Symplocos racemosa ,  Syzigium caryophyllatum,  Syzigium cumini,  Syzygium caryophyllatum,  Syzygium hemispericum,  Syzygium,  Teak,  Tephrosia pulcherrima,  Terminalia alata,  Terminalia bellarica,  Terminalia chebula,  Terminalia paniculata,  Terminalia tomentosa,  Theriophonum dalzellii,  Trewia nudiflora,  Tricholepis glaberrima,  Triumfetta  rhomboidea   ,  Urena  lobata ,  Utricularia reticulata,  Vernonia  divergens,  Vitex altissima,  Vitex negundo,  Weisneria  triandra ,  Wendlandia thyrasoides,  Xylia xylocarpa,  Zizhiphus rugosa,  Ziziphus oenoplia,  Ziziphus sp,  Ziziphus xylopyrus,  Zornia  gibbosa,  Zoysia matrella,. etc..

Fauna: : http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new
Mammals: Elephants, Tiger, Black Panther, Leopard, Bison, Gaur, Hare, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Deer, Thar, Bonnet Macaque, Lion Tailed Macaque, Giant Squirrel, Hanuman Languor.
Reptiles: Snakes (Vipers, Cobra, Rat snake, Crate, King cobra, Python, Wolf snake, etc), Monitor Lizard, Crocodile.
Birds: Amit et al, 2008
Acridotheres tristis, Aegithina tiphia, Alcedo athis, Alcedo meninting, Amaurornis fusca, Amaurornis phoenicurus, Anas creca, Anas penelope, Anas poecilorhynca, Anas querquedula, Anas Strepera, Anastomus oscitans, Anhinga rufa, Ans clypeata, Anthracoceros coronatus, Anthropoides virgo, Anus acuta, Apus nipalensis, Ardea alba, Ardea cinerea, Ardea purpurea, Ardeola grayii, Ardeola grayii , Arenaria interpres, Aythya nyroca, Botaurus stellaris, Bubulcus ibis, Bulbulcus ibis, Burhinus oedicnemus, Butorides striatus, Calidris alpina, Calidris minuta, Calidris temnickii, Calidris testacea, Casmerodius albus, Centropus sinensis, Ceryle rudis, Ceyx erithacus, Charadrius alexandrinus, Charadrius d. jerdoni, Charadrius dubius, Charadrius leschenaultii, Charadrius mongolus, Charadrius veredus, Chliodinas hybridus, Ciconia episcopus, Ciconia nigra, Circus aeruginosus, Columba livia, Copsychus saularis, Corvus levaillantii, Corvus splendens, Cursorius coromandelicus, Dendrocygna javanica, Dicrurus macrocercus, Egretta garzetta, Egretta gularis, Egretta intermediata, Esacus magniristris, Eudynamys scolopaceus, Fulica atra , Gallicrex cinerea, Gallinago gallinago, Gallinago minima , Gallinago stenura, Gallinula chloropus , Gelochelidon nilotica, Glareola lactea, Gorsachius melanolophus, Haematopus ostralegus, Halcyon pileata , Halcyon smyrnensis, Haliastur indus, Halycon Chloris , Himantopus himantopus, Hydrophasianus chirurgus , Hydroprogne caspia , Ixobrychus cinnamomeus, Ixobrychus flavicollis, Lanius schach, Larus brunnicephalus, Larus genei, Larus icthyaetus , Larus ridibundus , Leptoptilos javanicus, Limicola falcinellus , Limosa Limosa , Lonchura striata, Merops leschenaulti, Merops Orientalis, Merops philippinus, Metopidius indicus, Milvus migrans, Mycteria leucocephalus, Nattapus coromandelicus, Nectarinia zeylonica, Numenius arquata , Numenius phaeopus, Nycticorax nycticorax, Oriolus oriolus, pelargopsis capensis, Phalacrocorax fuscicollis, Phalacrocorax niger, Philomachus pugnax, Phoenicopterus roseus, Platalea leucorodia, Plegadis falcinnellus, Pluvialis dominica, Pluvialis squatarola, Porphyrio porphyrio, Porzona parva, Porzona pusilla, Prinia Socialis, Pseudibis papilosa, Psittacula cyanocephala, Psittacula krameri, Pycnonotus cafer, Rallina eurizonoides, Rallus striatus , Recurvirostra avosetta , Rhynchops albicollis, Rostratula benghalensis, Sarkidiornis melanotos, Saxicola caprata, Spilornis cheela, Sterna acuricauda, Sterna anaethetus, Sterna aurantia, Sterna bengalensis, Sterna bergii, Sterna fuscuta, Sterna Sandvicensis, Streptopelia chinensis, Sturnus roseus, sypheotides indicus, Tadorna ferruginea, Threskiornis melanocephala, Tringa erythropus, Tringa glareola, Tringa hypoleucos, Tringa nebularia , Tringa ochropus , Tringa stagnatilis, Tringa terek, Tringa totanus, Vanellus cinereus, Vanellus indicus, Vanellus malabaricus, Venellus indicus.

9

References

• Survey of India Topographic Sheets, 1:50000 scale.
• https://www.researchgate.net/profile/T_V_Ramachandra/publications
• http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy
• http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity
• Google Earth, https://www.google.com/earth/.
• Ramachandra, T.V., Chandran, M. D, S., Joshi, N. V., and Boominathan, M., 2012. Edible Bivalves of Central West Coast, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka, India., Sahyadri Conservation Series 17, ENVIS Technical Report : 48, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012.
• Census of India, 2001 and 2011, censusindia.gov.in.
• Chandran, M. D. S., Rao, G.R., Vishnu, D. M., Prakash, M., and Ramachandra, T. V., 2012. Grasslands of Anshi-Dandeli Tiger Reserve., ENVIS Technical Report: 36, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012.
• ENVIS Sahyadri Web Portal, http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new/
• Chandran, M. D. S., and Hughes, J. D., 2000, Sacred Groves and Conservation: The Comparative History of Traditional Reserves in the Mediterranean Area and in South India, Environment and History, 6, 2, 169–186.
• Gazetter of India, Uttara kannada district, 1985
• Central Marine and Fisheries Institute, http://www.cmfri.org.in
• Amit S. Yadav, Gururaja, K.V., Karthik, B., Rao, G. R., Vishnu, D. M., Chandran, M.,D. S and Ramachandra, T.V., 2008, Ecological Status of Kali River Flood Plain, ENVIS Technical Report: 29, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012.

4.0

Sharavathi

1

Geography

River Sharavathi is spread across Uttara Kannada and Shimoga District of Karnataka (Figure 1). Originating at Ambutirthha (Tirthahalli) (Figure 2) (Karnataka State Gazetteer, Ramachandra et al 2004), Sharavathi flows for a distance of nearly 128 km (Survey of India Topographic sheets, Water resource information system of India) before it joins Arabian Sea at Karki, Honnavar (Uttara Kannada) (Figure 2).
Tributaries of Aghanashini include, Nandiholé, Haridravathi, Sharmanavathi, Hilkunjiholé, Nagodiholé, Hurliholé, Yenneholé, Mavinaholé, Gundabalaholé, Kalkatteholé, Kandodiholé and many more. Sharavathi river has a catchment area of 3042 sq.km spread across districts of Uttara Kannada (Honavara, Siddapura, Kumta) and Shimoga (Sagara, Hosanagara, Tirthahalli).

Figure 1: Sharavathi River Location

Figure 2: Overlay of Google Earth

Figure 3: Topography

Topography of Sharavathi river catchment is as depicted in Figure 3, elevation ranges between < 0m and 1135m w.r.t Mean Sea Level, slope of the catchment varies up to 187%. Very high slope we observed in the Ghats (Gersoppa Ghat).
The variations in the terrain has led to formation of various water falls such as the Jog falls, Apsarakonda, Mavinagundi falls, Dabbe fall (http://www.karnataka.com) etc. The plain regions of the catchment are dominated by lakes whereas the Ghats are dominated by streams.
Rock types: Granites to schists, Quartzite’s, Phyllites, Porphyry, etc.
Ores: Iron, bauxite, quartz, sand, clay, lime shell, Manganese, Asbestos, Mica.
Soil: Red Soil, Lateritic soils, etc

2

Rainfall and Water Yield

Rainfall assessment in Sharavathi river catchment (Figure 4) indicates that rainfall in the catchment is orographic with annual rainfall varying spatially between 1700mm at the plains of Siddapura, to over 6500 mm at the Ghats (Gersoppa to Mavinagundi).
Water yield in the catchment is ~60 - 110 TMC

Figure 4: Rainfall

3

Anthropology

Population in the catchment (Figure 5) has increased from 319380 in 2001 to 353800 in 2011 (Census of India) and is projected to increase to 371010 in the year 2016 at a growth rate of 9.72% per decade. Population density in the catchment is 109 persons per square kilometer as on 2016. Major Population is contained at towns such as Honnavar, Sagar, Talguppa.
Communities: Kumri Marati, Goudas, Konkanis. Havyaka Brahmin, Namadhari Naik, Goud Saraswat Brahmin, Nadavas, Kurubas, Siddis, Daivajna, Muslims, etc. (Chandran and Hughes 2000, Wikipedia, Gazetter of India-Uttara Kannada district). 

Figure 5: Population dynamics in Sharavathi river catchment

4

History, Culture, Heritage

River Shatravathi has history beyond the Himalayas i.e., 88 Million year compared to Himalayas (50 Million years). Mirjan was known as trading hub for spices such as pepper, cardamom, etc
River Sharavathi origins at ambutirtha, and is also explained in Epic of Ramayana and Mahabharatha.

Culture

• Festivals and Jatras: Marikamba jatra, Shani deva jatra, Rameshwara Jatra, Gram deva Jatra, Nandi Jatra, Lakshmi narasimha jatra, Venkataramana jatra, Ganapathi jatra, Shambhulingeshwara Jatra, Uura habba (Village Festival), Nadi habba (River festival), Bandi habba, Vadya Panchami, Mahamay jatra, Durga devi jatra, Kannika parameshwari jatra, Shantika parameshwari jatra, Mari habba, etc
• Dance: Folk dances (suggi kunita), bharatha natya, Kolata, bedara kunita, dhamami kunita, Huli kunita, Yakshagana, Masti Kunita, Preta kuntia, Bedara kunita, Mandala kunita, etc
• Music: Folk Songs, Garatiya Haadu, Halliya Haadu, Nadapadagalu, Bingina pada, Gumatepada, Jogavve haadu, Doni pada, Jogi pada, Badi vadya etc.
• Traditional Games: Kallata, kavade, Channe mane, Karu aata, Katte aata, Hulighatta, Bandi aata, Devarata, Sariya mugila aata, Achchu aata, Chowkabara, Tabalamane, etc.

Major temples in the catchment of Sharavati includes: Siganduru, Kollur Mookambika, Gersoppa Hanumatha, Bellimakki Hanumantha, Idugunji, Ramatirtha, Karikan Parameshwari, Mugva Subramanya, Gundbala Hanumanta, Chandavara Hanumantha, Gunavateshwara, and many deities of the sacred groves.

5

Land use dynamics

Land use analysis of 2013 show that the catchment forest cover is reducing due to intense anthropogenic activities such as logging, plantation, etc. Figure 6 depicts FCC, Figure 7 and Table 1 depicts land use in the catchment. Sharavathi catchment has a forest cover of 33.7% (Evergreen 19.6%, Moist Deciduous 14.1%). Upstream of Sharavathi is dominated by agriculture (paddy), and downstream is dominated by horticulture activities (Arecanut).

Figure 6: False colour composite

Figure 7: Land use in Sharavati Catchment
Table1: Land use in Sharavati Catchment

6

Agriculture, Irrigation

Variety of Paddy, Sugar cane, Banana, Arecanut, Coconut, Mango, spices, etc.

7

Diversions

Sharavathi Generating Station (1035 MW) commissioned in 1964-65, the Linganamakki Dam Power House (55 MW) and the Sharavathi Tail Race Project (240 MW) at Gerusoppa in 2001. (Ramachandra et al 2004). Yet another dam proposed near Jog falls

8

Bio Diversity

Fishes: Mahima et al, 2014., Mahima et al, 2012., Sreekantha and Ramachandra, 2005., Sreekantha et al 2006.
Ambassis ambassis, Amblyphyrngodon mol, Aplocheilus  lineatus, Arius ariu, Arothron stellat, Barilius canarensis, Carangoides chrysophrys, Carangoides chrysophrys, Catla catla, Chanda nama, Channa marulius, Cirhina fulungee, Cirhina mrigala, Cirrhinus reba, Clarius  byatracus, Cyprinus carpio, Danio aequipinnatus, Dawkinsia filamentosa, Eleutheronema tetradactylum, Etroplus suretansis, Etroplus suratensi, Garra gotyla stenorynchus, Gerres limbatus , Gerries filamentosus, Glossogobius giuris , Glossogobius giurus, Grammoplites scaber, Heteropneustis  fossilis, Hyporhamphus xanthopterus, Hyporhampus xanthopterus, Labeo fimbriatus, Labeo rohita, Lates calcarifer, Lepidocephalichthys  thermalis, Liza parsia, Lutjanus argentimaculatus, Lutjanus johni, Lutjanus johnii, Lutjanus ruselli, Lutjanus russellii, Mastacembalus arnatus, Mugil cephalus, Mystus  cavesius, Mystus  keletius, Mystus malabaricus, Namacheilus rueppell, Ompok bimaculatu, Ompok sp, Oreochromis mossambica, Otolithus ruber, Platycephalus scaber, Pseudambasis  ranga, Pseudeutropius atherenoide, Pseudorhombus javanicus, Puntius arulius, Puntius dorsalis, Puntius fasciatus, Puntius filamentosis, Puntius filamentosus, Puntius kolus, Puntius narayani, Puntius parrah, Puntius ticto, Rasbora daniconius, Ray fish, Salmostoma boopis, Sardinella fimbriata, Scatophagus argus, Schistura nagodiensis, Schistura. Sharavathiensis, Secutor ruconius, Siganus vermiculatus , Sillago sihama, Sphyraena baracuda, Stolephorus commersonnii, Stolephorus indicus , Stoliphorus commersoni, Strongylura strongylura, Terapon jarbua, Tor khudree, Tor mussullah, Tylosurus strongylurus, Wallago attu, Xenentodon cancil,
Ants: Ramachandra et al 2012a
Acantholepis opaca, Acantholepis sp, Anoplolepis longipes, Aphaenogaster beccari, Bothriomyrmex sp, Camponotus (Colobopsis) sp, Camponotus angusticollis, Camponotus compressus, Camponotus invidus, Camponotus irritans, Camponotus paria, Camponotus rufoglaucus, Camponotus sericeus, Camponotus sp, Cardiocondyla sp, Cardiocondyla wroughtonii, Cataulacus taprobanae, Crematogaster nr dohrni, Crematogaster rothneyi, Crematogaster sp 1, Crematogaster sp 2, Crematogaster sp 3, Crematogaster sp 4, Crematogaster sp 5, Crematogaster sp 6, Crematogaster wroughtoni, Diacamma rugosm, Dolichoderus sp, Harpegnathos saltator, Holcomyrmex sp, Leptogenys diminuta, Leptogenys processionalis, Leptogenys sp, Lophomyrmex quadrispinosa, Meranoplus bicolor, Monomorium dichroum, Monomorium floricola, Monomorium gracillimum, Monomorium indicum, Monomorium latinode, Monomorium pharaonis, Monomorium scabriceps, Monomorium sp 1, Monomorium sp 2, Monomorium sp 3, Monomorium sp 4, Myrmicaria brunnea, Oecophylla smaragdina, Pachycondyla henrie, Pachycondyla luteipes, Pachycondyla rufipes, Pachycondyla tesserinoda, Paratrechina longicornis, Paratrechina sp, Pheidole nr sharpi, Pheidole parva, Pheidole sp 1, Pheidole sp 2, Pheidole sp 3, Pheidole spathifera, Pheidole watsoni, Pheidole wood-masoni, Pheidologeton affinis, Pheidologeton diversus, Platythyrea parallela, Platythyrea sagei, Polyrhachis mayri, Polyrhachis rastellata, Polyrhachis simplex, Polyrhachis tibialis, Prenolepis, Recurvidris recurvispinosa, Solenopsis geminata, Tapinoma sp, Technomyrmex albipes, Tetramorium sp 1, Tetramorium sp 2, Tetramorium sp 3, Tetramorium sp 4, Tetramorium sp 5, Tetramorium walshi, Tetraponera aitkeni, Tetraponera nigra, Tetraponera rufonigra,
Flora: Ramachandra et al 2012b,
 http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new (Siddapura, Honnavar, Sagar, Hosnagara, Tirthahalli Taluks) Forest types found in the district are: Evergreen, Semi Evergreen, Moist Deciduous, Scrub, Thorny, un wooded with following species.
Actinodaphne hookeri, Aglaia anamallayana, Aglaia roxburghiana, Aglaia sp, Agrostistaches indicus, Alpinia malaccensis, Ancistrocladus heyneanus, Antidesma menasu, Aporosa lindleyana, Arenga whiti, Artabotrys zeylanica, Artocarpus hirsutus, Atalantia racemosa, Atylosia sp, Beilschmiedia fagifolia, Blachia denudata, Boesenbergia pulcherrima, Briedelia stipularis, Calamus sp, Calamus thwaitesii, Callicarpa tomentosa, Calophyllum tomentosum, Canarium strictum, Canthium dicoccum, Canthium rheedei, Canthium sp., Capparis sp., Carallia brachiata, Carex sp., Careya arborea, Caryota urens, Casearia sp., Cassine glauca, Cassine sp, Celtis cinnomomea, Cinnamomum macrocarpum, Cleidion javanicum, Clerodendrum viscosum, Combretum latifolium, Connaraceae member, Croton gibsonianus, Croton sp., Cyclea peltata, Cyrtococcum oxyphyllum, Dichapetalum gelonioides, Dimocarpus longan, Dimorphocalyx lawianus, Dioscorea bulbifera, Diospyros candolleana, Diospyros crumenata, Diospyros oocarpa, Diospyros paniculata, Diospyros saldanhae, Diospyros sp, Dipterocarpus indicus, Dracaena terniflora, Drypetes elata, Drypetes sp (2), Drypetes sp(1), Elaeocarpus tuberculatus, Ervatamia heyneana, Euonymus indicus, Euphorbiaceae-1, Euphorbiaceae-2, Fahrenhetia zeylanica, Ficus callosa, Ficus nervosa, Flacourtia montana, Flacourtia sp, Flemingia strobilifera, Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia morella, Garcinia talbotii, Glochidion javanicum, Glycosmis pentaphylla, Gnetum scandens, Gomphandra axillaris, Gymnacranthera canarica, Gymnosporia rothiana, Hemidesmus indicus, Hibiscus furcatus, Holigarna ferruginea, Holigarna grahamii, Hopea ponga, Hydnocarpus laurifolia, Hydnocarpus pentandra, Ixora brachiata, Ixora nigricans, Ixora parviflora, Ixora polyantha, Ixora sp., Justicia simplex, Knema attenuata, Lagenandra ovata, Lagerstroemia  microcarpa, Leea indica, Lepisanthes deficiens, Litsea floribunda, Litsea ghatica, Litsea laevigata, Litsea sp., Litsea sp.(2), Lophopetalum wightianum, Luvunga sarmentosa, Macaranga peltata, Mallotus philippensis, Mallotus sp, Mallotus sp., Mallotus stenanthus, Mangifera indica, Mastixia arborea, Meiogyne pannosa, Memecylon terminale, Mesua ferrea, Microtropis wallichiana, Mimusops elengi, Mitrephora heyneana, Murraya paniculata, Myristica dactyloides, Myristica fatua, Myristica malabarica, Neolitsea zeylanica, Nothapodytes  foetida, Nothopegia colebrookeana, Ochlandra sp, Olea dioica, Ophiorrhiza hirsutula, Orophea zeylanica, Palaquium ellipticum, Pandanus sp, Persea macrantha, Phoebe cathia, Phyllanthus lawii, Pinanga dicksonii, Piper sp., Polyalthia fragrans, Polyalthia sp, Pothos scandens, Pothos scandens, Psychotria flavida, Pterospermum diversifolium, Randia rugulosa, Randia ruugosa, Rungia pectinata, Sageraea laurifolia, Santalum album, Scutia myrtina, Smilax spp, Smilax zeylanica, Strobilanthus heynianus, Strombosia ceylanica, Strychnos climber, Strycnos sp., Symplocos racemosa, Syzigium hemisphericum, Syzigium laetum, Syzigium sp(1), Syzigium sp(2), Syzygium cumini, Syzygium gardneri, Syzygium macrophylla, Terminalia paniculata, Tetrameles nudiflora, Tiliaceae member, Todalia asiatica, Ventilago maderaspatana, Vepris bilocularis, Vitaceae member, Walsura trifolia, Zingiber cernum, Zingiber sp., Zingiberaceae, Ziziphus rugose.
Bivalves: Ramachandra et al 2012c, Boominathan et al, 2014.
Polymesoda erosa, Oysters
Fauna: : http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new
Mammals: Tiger, Black Panther, Leopard, Bison, Gaur, Hare, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Deer, Thar, Bonnet Macaque, Lion Tailed Macaque, Giant Squirrel, Hanuman Languor.
Reptiles: Snakes (Vipers, Cobra, Rat snake, Krait, Pythons, King cobra, Python, Wolf snake, etc), Monitor Lizard.

9

References

• Survey of India Topographic Sheets, 1:50000 scale.
• Water Resource Information System of India, http://www.india-wris.nrsc.gov.in.
• Google Earth, https://www.google.com/earth/.
• Ramachandra, T. V., Chandran, M. D, S., Sreekantha, Mesta, D., Rao, G. R., and Sameer, A., 2004, Cumulative Impact Assessment in the Sharavathi river basin, International Journal of Environment and Development, 1(1), 113 – 135.
• Ramachandra, T.V., Chandran, M. D, S., Joshi, N. V., Karthick, B., and Vishnu, D. M., 2015, Ecohydrology of Lotic Systems in Uttara Kannada, Central Western Ghats, India, Environmental Management of River Basin Ecosystems – Earthy System Science, 621-655.
• Census of India, 2001 and 2011, censusindia.gov.in.
• Welcome NRI Web portal, http://www.welcomenri.com/Tourism/Waterfalls/waate-halla-waterfall-in-karnataka.aspx.
• Wild Wonderful Karnataka, http://www.dreamroutes.org/western/burudefalls.html.
• http://www.karnataka.com
• Mahima, B.,  Nayak,V. N.,  Chandran, M. D. S., and  Ramachandra, T. V., 2014. Impact of hydroelectric projects on finfish diversity in the Sharavathi River estuary of Uttara Kannada District, central west coast of India, International Journal of Environmental Sciences, 5(1): 58-66
• Mahima, B., Nayak, V. N., Chandran, M. D. S., and Ramachnadra, T. V., 2012, Impact of Hydroelectric Dams on Fisheries in the Sharavathi Estuary of Uttara Kannada District, National Conference on Conservation and Management of Wetland Ecosystems – LAKE 2012, 6th to 8th November 2012, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala.
• Ramachandra, T.V., Chandran, M .D. S., Joshi, N.V., Ajay, N., and Ali, T.M., 2012a. Ant Species Composition and Diversity in the Sharavathi River Basin, Central Western Ghats., ENVIS Technical Report: 20, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012.
• Ramachandra, T. V., Chandran, M. D., Joshi, N. V., Sooraj, N. P., Rao, G. R., and Vishnu D. M., 2012b, Ecology of Sacred Kan Forests in Central Western Ghats., Sahyadri Conservation Series 15, ENVIS Technical Report: 41, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012.
• Ramachandra, T. V., Chandran, M. D., Joshi, N. V., and Boominathan, M., 2012. Edible Bivalves of Central West Coast, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka, India., Sahyadri Conservation Series 17, ENVIS Technical Report: 48, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012.
• Boominathan, M., Chandran, M. D. S., and Ramachandra, T. V., 2008, Economic Valuation of Bivalves in the Aghanashini Estuary, West Coast, Karnataka, Sahyadri Conservation Series 9, ENVIS Technical Report: 301, November 20082, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012.
• Chandran, M. D S., Ramachandra, T. V, Joshi, N. V., Rao, G. R, Prakash, N. M., Balachandran, C., and Sumesh, N. D., 2012. Conservation Reserve Status to Lateritic Plateaus of Coastal Uttara Kannada., Sahyadri Conservation Series 21, ENVIS Technical Report: 51, November 2012, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012.
• ENVIS Sahyadri Web Portal, http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new/
• Chandran, M. D. S., and Hughes, J. D., 2000, Sacred Groves and Conservation: The Comparative History of Traditional Reserves in the Mediterranean Area and in South India, Environment and History, 6, 2, 169–186.
• Gazetter of India, Uttara kannada district, 1985
• Sreekantha., Gururaja, K. V., Ramadevi, K., Indra, T. J., and Ramacahndra, T. V., 2006, Two Species of Fishes of the Genus Schistura McClelland(Cypriniformes:Balitoridae) from Western Ghats, India, http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/water/paper/twonew_fishes/index.htm
• Sreekantha and Ramachandra, T. V.,, 2005, Fish diversity in Linganamakki reservoir and Sharavathi River., Ecology, Environment and Conservation, 11(3-4), 337-348
• https://www.researchgate.net/profile/T_V_Ramachandra/publications
• http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy
• http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity

5.0

Varada

1

Geography

River Varada is spread across Shimoga, Uttara Kannada and Haveri districts of Karnataka (Figure 1). Originating at Varadamoola (Figure 2) (Ramachandra et al 2014), Varada flows in the north east direction for a distance of nearly 198 km (Survey of India Topographic sheets,) before it joins Tungabhadra at Galagantha village Haveri district (Figure 2).
Tributaries of Varada include, and many more. Varada river has a catchment area of 5135 sq.km.

Figure 1: Varada River Location

Figure 2: Overlay of Google Earth

Figure 3: Topography

Topography of Varada river catchment is as depicted in Figure 3, elevation ranges between 507m and 836m w.r.t Mean Sea Level, slope of the catchment varies up to 119%. The catchment has gentle slope flowing to the north eastern direction.
Due to the flatter terrain, numerous lakes (over 4000) in the catchment could be observed which serves as a reserve, recharge pit, for fish culture, agriculture and other activities.
Rock types: Granite, Schists, Porphyry, Chlorite, Limestone
Ores: Iron, Manganese, Limestone, Clay
Soil: Red Soil, Lateritic soils, Black soil, etc

2

Rainfall and Water Yield

Rainfall assessment in Varada catchment (Figure 4) indicates that rainfall in the catchment is orographic with annual rainfall varying spatially between 663mm at the plains of Haveri, to over 3600 mm at the Ghats of Sagar (Shimoga).
Water yield in the catchment is 40 – 80 TMC

Figure 4: Rainfall

3

Anthropology

Population in the catchment (Figure 5) is about1234523. Population density in the catchment is 245 persons per square kilometer as on 2016. Major Population is contained at towns such as Sagara, Siddapura, Haveri, Sorab, Shiggaon, Savanur, Hangal. Agasanahalli, Byadgi, etc.
Communities: Kumri Marati, Goudas, Konkanis. Havyaka Brahmin, , Nadavas, Kurubas, Siddis, Daivajna, Muslims, Lingayaths etc. (Chandran and Hughes 2000, Wikipedia, Gazetter of India-Uttara Kannada district, Mysore Gazetteer). 

4

Culture, Heritage

Culture

• Festivals and Jatras: Uura habba (Village Festival), Nadi habba (River festival), Renukanma jatra, Mari habba, Ganapathi jatra, Rameshwara Ratha jatra, Basaveshwara Jatra, Gam devara jatra, Nandi jatra, etc
• Dance: Folk dances (suggi kunita), bharatha natya, Kolata, bedara kunita, dhamami kunita, Huli kunita, Yakshagana, Masti Kunita, Preta kuntia, Bedara kunita, Mandala kunita, etc
• Music: Folk Songs, Garatiya Haadu, Halliya Haadu, Nadapadagalu, Bingina pada, Gumatepada, Jogavve haadu, Jogi pada, Badi vadya etc.
• Traditional Games: Kallata, kavade, Channe mane, Karu aata, Katte aata, Hulighatta, Bandi aata, Devarata, Sariya mugila aata, Achchu aata, Chowkabara, Tabalamane, etc.

Major temples in the catchment of Ikkeri, Keladi, Marikamba, Varadambe, Varadalli, Banavasi, Chandragutgi, Tarakeshwara, Siddeswhara, Kaginele, Kedareswhara, Bankapura, Hosagunda, Ranganatha etc  and many deities of the sacred groves.

5

Land use dynamics

Land use analysis as on 2013 show that the catchment is dominated by agricultural activities towards the plains (69.11% of the total catchment) and plantation activities in the Ghats. Forests cover only 15.4% of the entire catchments, dominated at Ghats. Figure 5 depicts FCC , Figure 6 and Table 1 depicts land use in the catchment as on 2013.

Figure 5: False colour composite

Figure 7: Land use dynamics in Varada Catchment
Table1: Land use in Varada Catchment

6

Agriculture, Irrigation

Variety of Paddy, Sugar cane, Jowar, Ragi, Cotton, Maize, Pineapple, Ginger, Banana, Arecanut, Coconut, Mango, spices,  etc.

7

Diversions

Numerous barrages, check-dams, lakes for maintaining water demand of agriculture and horticulture crops.

8

Bio Diversity

Flora: http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new (Sorba, Sagara,) Forest types found in the district are: Evergreen, Semi Evergreen, Moist Deciduous, Scrub, Thorny, un wooded with following species.
Actinodaphne hookeri, Adina cordifolia, Aglaia ananmallayana, Aglaia roxburghiana, Alangium salvifolium, Albizia sp, Alseodaphne semicarpifolia, Alstonia scholaris, Antiaris toxicaria, Aphanamixis polystachya, Aphananthe cuspidata, Aporosa lindleyana, Artocarpus gomezianus, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Artocarpus hirsutus, Beilschmiedia fagifolia, Bombax ceiba, Butea monosperma, Calicopteris floribunda, Careya arborea, Caryota urens, Casearia championii, Cassine glauca, Celtis cinnomomea, Chrysophyllum roxburghii, Chukrasia tabularis, Clausena anisata, Cleidion javanicum, Cordia sp, Dalbergia latifolia, Dalbergia sympathetica, Diospyros crumenata, Diospyros montana, Diospyros oocarpa, Diospyros sylvatica, Drypetes confertiflora, Dysoxylum malabaricum, Entada pursaetha, Ervatamia heyneana, Erythrina variegata, Fagraea ceilanica, Ficus callosa, Ficus nervosa, Ficus tsjahela, Flacourtia montana, Glochidion zeylanicum, Gnetum ula, Grewia tiliifolia, Harpullia imbricata, Holigarna arnotiana, Holigarna beddomii, Holigarna ferruginea, Holigarna grahamii, Hydnocarpus laurifolia, Ipomoea sp, Ixora brachiata, Knema attenuata, Lagerstroemia microcarpa, Lannea coromandelica, Linociera malabarica, Macaranga peltata, Mammea suriga, Mangifera indica, Margaritaria indica, Memecylon talbotianum, Merremia emarginata, Mimusops elengi, Mussaenda belilla, Nothapodytes  foetida, Olea dioica, Phyllanthus emblica, Pterocarpus marsupium, Pterospermum reticulatum, Sapindus emarginatus, Sapindus laurifolia, Saraca asoca, Schefflera wallichiana, Spatholobus parviflorus, Spondias pinnata, Sterculia guttata, Stereospermum tetragonum, Streblus asper, Strombosia ceylanica, Strychnos nuxvomica, Syzygium cumini, Terminalia alata, Terminalia bellirica, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia paniculata, Tetrameles nudiflora, Tetrastigma gamblei, Toddalia asiatica var  floribunda, Toona ciliata, Trema orientalis, Uvaria narum, Vengueria spinosa, Ventilago madraspatana, Vepris bilocularis, Vitex altissima, Xantolis tomentosa, Xeromorphis spinosa, Xylia xylocarpa, Zanthoxylum rhetsa.
Fauna: : http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new
Mammals: Tiger (Ghats), Black Panther, Leopard, Bison, Gaur, Hare, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Deer, Thar, Bonnet Macaque, Giant Squirrel, Hanuman Languor, Fox, etc
Reptiles: Snakes (Vipers, Cobra, Rat snake, Krait, King cobra, Python, Wolf snake, etc), Monitor Lizard.

9

References

• Survey of India Topographic Sheets, 1:50000 scale.
• Water Resource Information System of India, http://www.india-wris.nrsc.gov.in.
• Google Earth, https://www.google.com/earth/.
• Census of India, 2001 and 2011, censusindia.gov.in.
• Ramachandra, T. V., Chandran, M. D. S., Vinay, S., Bharath, H. Aithal., 2014, Water Scarcity in Varada Catchment: Need to arrest Deforestation on Priority, ENVIS Technical Report No. 82, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
• ENVIS Sahyadri Web Portal, http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new/
• Chandran, M. D. S., and Hughes, J. D., 2000, Sacred Groves and Conservation: The Comparative History of Traditional Reserves in the Mediterranean Area and in South India, Environment and History, 6, 2, 169–186.
• Gazetter of India, Uttara Kannada district, 1985
• Mysore Gazetteer, Volume 5, Part 2, 2011.
• https://www.researchgate.net/profile/T_V_Ramachandra/publications
• http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy
• http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity

6.0

Venkarapura

1

Geography

River Venkatapura is spread across the Western Ghats in Uttara Kannada and Shimoga districts of Karnataka (Figure 1). Originating at Sagara (Figure 2), Originating near Bhimeshwara temple -Sagara (Shimoga), Venkarapura flows for a distance of nearly 50 km (Survey of India Topographic sheets, High resolution satellite data-optical and radar) before it joins Arabian Sea at Alvekodi/ Tenginagundi - Bhatkal (Uttara Kannada) (Figure 2). Tributaries of Venkatapura include, Chitihalla, Katagar Nala, Basti Halla, Kitreholé, Venkatapura river and many more. Venkatapura river has a catchment area of 459.70 sq.km spread across districts of Uttara Kannada (Bhatkal) and Shimoga (Sagar).

Figure 1: Venkatapura River Location

Figure 2: Overlay of Google Earth

Figure 3: Topography

Topography of Venkatapura river catchment is as depicted in Figure 3, elevation ranges between < 0m and 815m w.r.t Mean Sea Level, slope of the catchment varies up to 119%. Very high slope we observed in the Ghats (Kogar Ghat).
Water falls such as the Bhimeshwara falls etc form in the Ghats of Venkatapura.
Rock types: Granites to schists, shale, quartzite’s, Phyllites.
Ores: Iron, limestone, bauxite, quartz, limestone, sand, clay, shell, Manganese, Asbestos, Mica,Bauxitr
Soil: Red Soil, Lateritic soils, Black soil, etc

2

Rainfall and Water Yield

Rainfall assessment in Venkatapura catchment (Figure 4) indicates that rainfall in the catchment is orographic with annual rainfall varying spatially between 3700mm at the plains of coast, to over 5700 mm at the Ghats.
Water yield in the catchment is 8 - 16 TMC

Figure 4: Rainfall

3

Anthropology

Population in the catchment (Figure 5) has increased from 153032 in 2001 to 175279 in 2011 (Census of India) and is projected to increase to 188020 in the year 2016 at a growth rate of 14.5% per decade. Population density in the catchment is 404 persons per square kilometer as on 2016. Major Population is contained at towns/villages such as Bhatkal, Shirali, Heble.
Communities: Ambiga, Bedar, Devadiga, Devali, Havyaka Brahmin, Kurubas, Siddis, Konkani Kharvi, Kumri Maratha,Namadhari, Muslims, Jains, etc. (Chandran and Hughes 2000, Gazetter of India-Uttara Kannada district). 

Figure 5: Population dynamics in Venkatapura river catchment

4

History, Culture, Heritage

River Venkatapura has history beyond the Himalayas i.e., 88 Million year compared to Himalayas (50 Million years).
Epic of Mahabharatha explains about Bheemeshwara temple, that was constructed by Bheema, during the agnaythavasa and was established by Dharmaraya on Shivrathri. Arjuna bowed an arrow at the nearby mountain to bring the water for worship which is there even today as Sarala river which has not drained out so far (Tripadvisor web portal).
Culture

• Festivals and Jatras: Hanumantha devara rathotsava, Mahasati Jatra, Mari jatra, Bhavani shankara rathotsava, Mahaganapathi rathotsava,Uura habba (Village Festival), Nadi habba (River festival), Bandi habba, Vadya Panchami, Mahamay jatra, Durga devi jatra, Kannika parameshwari jatra, Shantika parameshwari jatra, Venkataramana jatra, etc
• Dance: Folk dances (suggi kunita), bharatha natya, Kolata, bedara kunita, dhamami kunita, Huli kunita, Yakshagana, Masti Kunita, Preta kuntia, Bedara kunita, Mandala kunita, etc
• Music: Folk Songs, Garatiya Haadu, Halliya Haadu, Nadapadagalu, Bingina pada, Gumatepada, Jogavve haadu, Doni pada, Jogi pada, Badi vadya etc.
• Traditional Games: Kallata, kavade, Channe mane, Karu aata, Katte aata, Hulighatta, Bandi aata, Devarata, Sariya mugila aata, Achchu aata, Chowkabara, Tabalamane, etc.

Religious places in the catchment of Venkatapura includes: Bastis, Khetappayya Narayana,Chindnadapalli mosque etc.

5

Land use dynamics

Land use analysis of 2013 show that the catchment is dominated by evergreen forest cover (~42.7%), followed by Agriculture (~21.8%), etc. Figure 6 depicts FCC, Figure 7 and Table 1 depicts land use in the catchment as on 2013.

Figure 6: False colour composite

Figure 7: Land use of Venkatapura Catchment
Table1: Land use in Venkatapura Catchment

6

Agriculture, Irrigation

Variety of Paddy, Sugar cane, Banana, Arecanut, Coconut, Mango, spices, etc.

7

Diversions

No Major Diversion works in the catchment

8

Bio Diversity

Bivalves: Ramachandra et al 2012
Villorita cyprinoides
Flora: http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new (Sagara, Bhatkal Taluks) Forest types found in the district are: Evergreen, Semi Evergreen, Moist Deciduous, Scrub, Thorny, un wooded with following species.
 Actinodaphne hookeri, Aglaia ananmallayana, Aglaia roxburghiana, Ailanthus excelsa, Alphonseo sp, Alstonia scholaris, Ancistrocladus hamatus, Aphananthe cuspidata, Aporosa lindleyana, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Artocarpus gomezianus, Artocarpus hirsutus, Beilschmiedia fagifolia, Bischofia  javanica, Calophyllum polyanthum, Canarium strictum, Canthium dicoccum, Canthium parviflorum, Caryota urens, Casearia championii, Cassine glauca, Celtis cinnomomea, Chrysophyllum roxburghii, Cinnamomum macrocarpum, Cinnamomum malabathricum, Dillenia pentagyana, Dimocarpus longan, Diospyros buxifolia, Diospyros candolleana, Diospyros montana, Diospyros paniculata, Diospyros sylvatica, Dipterocarpus indicus, Elaeocarpus serratus, Entada pursaetha, Ervatamia heyneana, Ficus nervosa, Flacourtia montana, Garcinia gummi_gutta, Garcinia morella, Glochidion zeylanicum, Gnetum ula, Harpullia imbricata, Holigarna arnotiana, Holigarna ferruginea, Holigarna grahamii, Holigarna nigra, Homalium ceylanicum, Hopea ponga, Hydnocarpus laurifolia, Ixora brachiata, Knema attenuata, Lagerstroemia microcarpa, Linociera malabarica, Litsea floribunda, Lophopetalum wightianum, Macaranga peltata, Mallotus philippensis, Mangifera indica, Mimusops elengi, Myristica dactyloides, Nothopegia racemosa, Olea dioica, Persia macarantha, Pittosporum dasycaulon, Pterospermum diversifolium, Pterospermum reticulatum, Schleichera oleosa, Sterculia guttata, Stereospermum tetragonum, Strombosia ceylanica, Symplocos racemosa, Syzygium cumini, Syzygium laetum, Syzygium travancoricum, Terminalia bellirica, Tetrameles nudiflora, Trichilia connaroides, Vitex altissima, Xantolis tomentosa.
Fauna: : http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new
Mammals: Tiger, Black Panther, Leopard, Bison, Gaur, Hare, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Deer, Thar, Bonnet Macaque, Lion Tailed Macaque, Giant Squirrel, Hanuman Languor.
Reptiles: Snakes (Vipers, Cobra, Rat snake, Krait, King cobra, Python, Wolf snake, etc), Monitor Lizard, etc.

9

References

• Survey of India Topographic Sheets, 1:50000 scale.
• Water Resource Information System of India, http://www.india-wris.nrsc.gov.in.
• Google Earth, https://www.google.com/earth/.
• Census of India, 2001 and 2011, censusindia.gov.in.
• Wild Wonderful Karnataka, http://www.dreamroutes.org/western/burudefalls.html.
• ENVIS Sahyadri Web Portal, http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new/
• Chandran, M. D. S., and Hughes, J. D., 2000, Sacred Groves and Conservation: The Comparative History of Traditional Reserves in the Mediterranean Area and in South India, Environment and History, 6, 2, 169–186.
• Gazetter of India, Uttara kannada district, 1985
• Ramachandra, T. V., Chandran, M. D., Joshi, N. V., and Boominathan, M., 2012. Edible Bivalves of Central West Coast, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka, India., Sahyadri Conservation Series 17, ENVIS Technical Report: 48, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012.
• https://www.researchgate.net/profile/T_V_Ramachandra/publications
• http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy
• http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity

7.0

Cauvery River

Cauvery (or Kaveri) is the largest river in the state and originates at Talakaveri  in Coorg. It is often called the Dakshina Ganga (the Ganges of the South) and considered one of the sacred rivers of India. the origin of the River Kaveri, is a famous pilgrimage and tourist spot set amidst Bramahagiri Hills near Madikeri in Coorg. The tributaries of the Kaveri include: Harangi, Hemavathi (origin in western Ghats joins the river Kaveri near Krishnarajasagar), Lakshmanatirtha, Kabini (originates in Kerala and flows eastward and joins the Kaveri at Tirumakudal, Narasipur), Shimsha, Arkavati, Suvarnavathi or Honnuholé,  Bhavani, Lokapavani, Noyyal, Amaravati

Salient Features of Cauvery Basin

Brief Description

• The Cauvery River rises in the Western Ghats and flows in eastwardly direction passing through the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Pondicherry before it drains into Bay of Bengal. The basin lies between latitudes 100 05’ N and 130 30’ N and longitudes 750 30’ E and 790 45’ E.
• It is bounded on the west by the Western Ghats, on the east and south by the Eastern Ghats and on the north by the ridges separating it from the Tungabhadra (Krishna) and Pennar basins.
• The total length of the river from source to its outfall into Bay of Bengal is about 800 km. Of this, 320 km is in Karnataka, 416 km is in Tamil Nadu and 64 km forms the common boundary between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu States.
• The Cauvery basin extends over an area of 81,155 km2, which is nearly 24.7% of the total geographical area of the country
• The basin lies in the States of Tamil Nadu (55.44%), Karnataka (41.23%), Kerala (3.33%).and Pondicherry
• The shape of the basin is somewhat rectangular with a maximum length and breadth of 360 km and 200 km, respectively.

Upper Sub-Basin (WRIS)

Middle (WRIS Portal)

Lower basin (WRIS Portal)

Flow of river Cauvery (Source: WRIS Portal http://wrmin.nic.in)

Physiography

Physiographically, the basin can be divided into three parts: the Western Ghats area, the Plateau of Mysore and the Delta. The delta area is the most fertile tract in the basin.

Drainage Area (Km2)

Statewise Drainage Area (Km2)

Name of State

Drainage area

Tamil Nadu

43,867

Karnataka

34,273

Kerala

  2,866

Pondicherry

    149

Total Drainage Area ( Km2)

81,155

Geology of the Basin

The geology of the drainage basin is predominantly formed from Precambrian rocks, principally the Dharwars, Peninsular granitic Gneiss, Charnockites and the Closepet Granite. The Dharwar metamorphics mainly comprise of phyllites, slates, schists with chlorite, biotite, garnet, and hornblende. Accompanying these are greenstones and quartzite. The Closepet Granite of the upper reaches of the Cauvery basin is a pink granite consisting mainly of quartz, plagioclase, microcline, perthite, and subordinate hornblende. Over the main basin, the peninsular granites and gneisses comprising of biotite granitic gneiss, hornblende granitic gneiss are widely found. The Charnockites are confined to the Nilgiri Range in the central part of the drainage basin. These are represented by gabbros, olivine norites, and pyroxene. Cretaceous sediments crop out in the coastal region and consist of conglomeratic sandstone, coralline limestone, and shale.

Soil of the Basin

The principal soil types found in the basin are black soils, red soils, laterites, alluvial soils, forest soils, and mixed soils. Red soils occupy large areas in the basin. Alluvial soils are found in the delta areas. The culturable area of the basin is about 58,000 km2 which is about three percent of the culturable area of the country.

Forest

Out of the total area of the basin, the area under forest is just 19.53%. In Kerala part of the basin, the forest cover is much higher but considering that area forms a small part of the basin, this comes out to be negligible. The forest cover is much below the desirable forest cover of 33%. The minimal forest cover is in the districts of Thanjavur (1.5%), Tumkur (2%) and Mandya (4.8%). These forests are ecologically unique and very rich. Home to some of the unique flora and fauna, the area is famous for its many sanctuaries.

Climate of Cauvery
Basin

Cauvery basin experiences tropical climate. Here, the main climatic feature is the monsoon rain. The north-east monsoon provides the greater portion of the annual precipitation. The far north-western part of the drainage basin has a per-humid climate which passes eastwards into humid, moist sub-humid, dry sub-humid and semi-arid zones. The recorded maximum and minimum temperatures are 44°C and 18°C respectively.
The highest rainfall in the basin is received along the western border of the basin during the southwest monsoon. The eastern side of the basin gets most of the rain during the northeast monsoon. Depressions in the Bay of Bengal affect the basin in the monsoon, causing cyclones and widespread heavy rains 

Water Potential of the Basin

Surface Water potential

66.88 km3

Ground Water potential

16.46 km3

Major Tributaries with drainage area in sq. km.

The important tributaries joining Cauvery in the Coorg district are the Kakkabe, the Kadanur and the Kummahole. Cauvery then enters the Mysore district where important tributaries joining the river from the left are the Harangi, the Hemavathi, the Shimsha and the Arkavathi. The tributaries joining it from the right are the Lakshmanathirtha, the Kabbani, and the Survanavathi. Further down, the river enters Tamil Nadu state where the many tributaries, namely, the Bhavani, the Noyil, and the Amravathi join it.

Major Projects

Krishnaraja sagar dam, Nugu, Mettur and Grand Anicut projects

Agriculture

The major part of basin is covered with agricultural land accounting to 66.21% of the total area and 4.09% of the basin is covered by water bodies. The basin spreads over 33 parliamentary constituencies (2009) comprising 18 of Tamil Nadu, 11 of Karnataka, 3 of Kerala and 1 of Puducherry.

Water Quality

Several studies were made by the Central Pollution Control Board to ascertain the status of water quality in the Cauvery River. The results show that at many places, the quality of water was quite poor compared to what was the desired class.

Problems in the  Basin

Occasional flood problem in lower reaches and delta areas of Cauvery river.

Mythology

The Cauvery River, also known as Dakshin Ganga or 'Ganga of South', is one of the holy rivers of South India.

8.0

Krishna River

Brief Description: Krishna is second largest river in peninsular India, rises in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 1337 m. near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra State, about 64 km from the Arabian Sea (http://nihroorkee.gov.in/). On the north, the basin is bounded by the range separating it from the Godavari basin, on the south and east by the Eastern Ghats and on the west by the Western Ghats. It flows across the whole width of the peninsula, from west to east, for a length of about 1400 km, through Maharashtra (a distance of 305 km;  catchment area 69,425 sq.km), Karnataka (length 483 km; catchment area 113,271 sq.km) and Andhra Pradesh (length 612 km; catchment area 76,251 sq.km). Krishna basin lies between latitudes 13º 07’ N and 19º 20’ N and longitudes 73º 22’ E and 81º 10’ E with the catchment area of 2,58,948 sq km., spanning across the three major basin states (Maharastra (26.81%), Karnataka (43.74%) and Andhra Pradesh(29.45%)). It originates in Maharashtra and passes through Karnataka. The principal tributaries of the Krishna in Karnataka are: Ghataprabha (Origin in the Western Ghats and flows eastwards and joins the river Krishna. The river forms the well-known Gokak Falls in Belgaum District), Malaprabha (origin in Western Ghats and flows first in easterly and north-easterly directions and joins river Krishna at Kudalasangama), Bhima (originates in the forest of Bhimashankar in Pune, and flows through the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka and joins Krishna near Kudlu in Raichur taluk and Tungabhadra (formed in the district of Shimoga, by the union of the Tunga and the Bhadra rivers. The river Tungabhadra flows east across the Deccan Plateau and join river Krishna in Andhra Pradesh).

http://India-wris.nrsc.gov.in

State-wise Drainage area of the Basin

State wise

Drainage area (Km2)

Maharashtra

69,425

Karnataka

113,271

Andhra Pradesh

76,252

Total

258,948

Details  of the principal tributaries of Krishna in Karnataka are Ghataprabha, Malaprabha, Bhima and Tungabhadra and details (catchment area, altitude, length) are given below:

Tungabhadra River

Tungabhadra River also known as Pampa or Hampi is formed by the Tunga River and Bhadra River that originate in the Western Ghats and flows in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The Tunga and Bhadra Rivers rise at Gangamoola, in Varaha Parvatha in the Western Ghats forming parts of the Kuduremukh, at an elevation of 1198 metres.
Bhadra flows through Bhadravati city and is joined by numerous streams. At Koodli, a small town near Shimoga City, Karnataka, these two rivers meet (Tungabhadra) and then  Thungabhadra meanders through the plains to a distance of 531 km and mingles with the Krishna at Gondimalla, near Mahaboobnagar in Andhra Pradesh.  Significance of Tungabhadra River  are:

• Presence of ancient and holy sites on the banks,  for example Harihareshwara temple at Harihara.
• The river surrounds the modern town of Hampi, where are the ruins of Vijayanagara, the site of the powerful Vijayanagara Empire’s capital city and now a World Heritage Site.
• Alampur, on the left – northern bank of the river, known as Dakshina Kashi in Mahabubnagar Dist. The Nava Brahma Temples complex is one of the earliest models of temple architecture in India.
• Bhadravthi, Hospet, Hampi, Mantralayam, Kurnool are located on its bank.

Tributaries of Tungabhadra: Tunga River, Kumudvati River, Varada River, Bhadra River, Vedavathi River, Handri River

Bhima River

Bhima River originates in Bhimashankar hills near Karjat in Maharashtra and flows southeast for 861 km through Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh states. Bhima river catchment is densely populated and form a fertile agricultural area. During its 861 km journey, many smaller rivers flow into it. Kundali River, Kumandala River, Ghod river, Bhama, Indrayani River, Mula River, Mutha River and Pavna River are the major tributories of this river around Pune. Of these Indrayani, Mula, Mutha and Pawana flow through Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad city limits. Chandani, Kamini, Moshi, Bori, Sina, Man, Bhogwati and Nira are the major tributaries of the river in Solapur. Of these Nira river meets with the Bhima in Narsingpur, in Malshiras taluka in Solapur district. Tributaries of Bhima are: Ghod, Sina, Kagini, Bhama, Indrayani, Mula-Mutha, Nira. Significance of this river are:

• Pandharpur city of is on the bank of Bhima River.
• Bhimashankar is one of the twelve esteemed Jyotirlinga shrines. Other temples are Siddhatek, Siddhivinayak Temple of Ashtavinayak Ganesh Pandharpur Vithoba Temple in Solapur district., Sri Dattatreya Temple, Ganagapura, Gulbarga district, Karnataka, Sri Kshetra Rasangi Balabheemasena Temple in Rasanagi, Jevargi Taluq, Gulbarga district, Karnataka

Malaprabha River

Malaprabha River It rises at Kanakumbi in the Belgaum district and joins Krishna River at Kudalasangama in Bagalkot district. It also flows through Dharwar District. Hubli city gets its drinking water from this reservoir. Tributaries of Malprabha: Bennihalla, Hirehalla and Tuparihalla are the major tributaries to Malaprabha.

Ghataprabha River

Ghataprabha is a tributary of Krishna that flows in Karnataka with the hydroelectric and irrigational dam at Hidkal. Tributaries of Ghataprabha: Hiranyakeshi and Markandeya rivers are tributaries of Ghataprabha.

Other tributaries are: Other tributaries are Koyna River (catchment: 4,890 Km2) , Kudali river, Venna River, Yerla River, Warna River, Dindi River (3,490 Km2), Halia (3,780 Km2), Peddavagu (2,343 Km2),  Paleru River, Musi River (11,212 Km2), Urmodi River, Tarli River and Dudhganga River. The rivers Venna, Koyna, Vasna, Panchganga (2,575 Km2), Dudhganga (2,350 Km2), Ghataprabha, Malaprabha and Tungabhadra join Krishna from the right bank; while the Yerla River, Musi River, Halia, Maneru and Bhima rivers join the Krishna from the left bank.

Geology of the Basin

The geology of the Krishna basin is dominated in the northwest by the Deccan Traps, in the central part by unclassified crystallines, and in the east by the Cuddapah Group. The Dharwars (southwest central) and the Vindhian (east central) form a significant part of the outcrops within the unclassified crystallines. Krishna delta is predominantly formed by Pleistocene to recent material.

Water Potential

Surface Water potential

78.1 km3

Ground Water potential

26.41 km3

Hydropower Potential

Nagarjunsagar

815

Nagarjunsagar RC

91

Nagarjunsagar CH

61

Srisailam

770

Srisailam LB

900

Water Utilization

Surface Water Utilization

Drinking 

Irrigation

Ground Water Utilization

Drinking

Irrigation purposes

Major Projects

Upper Krishna Project Stage-1,Upper Krishna Project Stage-2, Srisailam dam, Pulichintala project, Nagarjunasagar project, Ghatprabha dam, Tungabhadra project, Vanivilas Sagar project, Bennihora project, Bhadha Reservoir project, Bhima Irrigation project, Hipparagi Barrage, Malprabha project, Upper Tunga project,  Koyna dam, Markendaya project, Singatalur lift irrigation, Krishna irrigation project, Osman Sagar reservoir and Prakasam barrage.

Water Quality of the Basin

Due to the sustained inflow of untreated sewage and industrial effluents, the water quality is very poor evident from higher values of BOD, lower values of DO and the presence of total coliform.

Problems in the Basin

The Krishna basin particularly in east coast faces periodically flood problems in the wake of cyclonic storms.

Mythology

Krishna is a mighty east flowing river of peninsular India. It is the same river as Krsnavena in the Puranas or Krsnaveni in the Yoginitantra. It is also known as Kanhapenna in Jatakas and Kanhapena in the Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela. The word Krishna also indicates dark color

Important places

Mahabaleshwar the ‘land of five rivers - Krishna, Koyna, Venna, Gayatri and Savitri’ is located at an altitude of 1,372 meters in the Western Ghats. Some of tourist locations are: Lodwick Point,  Arther Point, Elphinstone Point, Tiger’s Spring, Kate’s Point, Bombay Point, Wilson Point, Venna Lake and Kate’s Point,  Lingmala, Chinaman and Dhobi waterfalls (http://www.gktoday.in/blog/krishna-river/).

Srisailam (in Andhra Pradesh) is a holy town with a sanctuary (an area of 3568 sq kms) located on the banks of the Krishna. Srisailam is surrounded by lush greenery and has beautiful locations around. Krishna river meanders through Narsobachi, Wadi in Maharashtra and flows through Karnataka to Andhra Pradesh.

Nagarjuna Sagar or Nagarjuna Sagar Dam (one of the world’s largest man-made lake) stretches across the mighty river Krishna. Nagarjunakonda was the largest and most important Buddhist centres in South India.

Amaravati is a small town in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh and was once the capital of Satavahanas. The Shiva temple is with five lingams -Pranaveswara, Agasteswara, Kosaleswara, Someswara and Parthiveswara. The remains of a 2000-year-old Buddhist settlement along with the great Buddhist stupa are among the main attractions in Amaravati. Mahachaitya or the Great Stupa was constructed approximately 2000 years ago. The stupa is made of brick with a circular vedika and depicts Lord Buddha in a human form, subduing an elephant (http://www.gktoday.in/blog/krishna-river/).

Vijayawada: Vijayawada is the third largest city and a popular trade and commerce centre in Andhra Pradesh on the banks of Krishna River.

9.0

Gangavali / Bedthi

1

Geography

River Gangavali (also known as Bedthi or Gangavalli) is spread across in Uttara Kannada, Dharwad, Haveri Districts of Karnataka (Figure 1). Originating at Dharwad district (Huble- Bedti stream, Dharwad-Shalmal stream) (Figure 2), Gangavali flows for a distance of nearly 161 km (Survey of India Topographic sheets, Uttara Kannada District – Gazetteer of India) before it joins Arabian Sea at Manjguni-Ankola (Uttara Kannada) (Figure 2).
Tributaries of Gangavali include, Gangavali, Bedthi, Vibuthi holé , Huli devara kodlu, Yenne hole, Shalmala, Sonda  and many more. Gangavali river has a catchment area of 3935 sq.km spread across districts of Uttara Kannada (Sirsi, Mundgod, Ankola), Dharwad (Hubli, Dharwad, Kundgol) and Haveri (Shiggaon).

Figure 1: Gangavali River Location

Figure 2: Overlay of Google Earth

2

Topography

Topography of Gangavali river catchment is as depicted in Figure 3, elevation ranges between < 0m and 834m w.r.t Mean Sea Level, slope of the catchment varies up to 536.8%. Very high slope we observed in the Yellapura (Arabial Ghat).  The variations in the terrain has led to formation of various water falls such at the Ghats as the Magod, Vibuthi, etc. Flatter terrains in the plain land have led to creation of large number of lakes (Figure 1).
Rock types: Granites to schists, shale, quartzite’s, Phyllites, Dolerite rocks including granite, basalt, etc.
Ores: Iron, limestone, bauxite, quartz, limestone, sand, clay, lime shell, Manganese, Asbestos, Mica.
Soil: Red Soil, Lateritic soils, Black soil, etc.

Figure 3: Topography

3

Rainfall and Water Yield

Rainfall assessment in Gangavali catchment (Figure 4) indicates that rainfall in the catchment is orographic with annual rainfall varying spatially between 1000mm at the plains of Hubli, to over 4500 mm at the Ghats of Yellapura (Arabial Ghats). Water yield in the catchment is 45 to 70 TMC

Figure 4: Rainfall

4

Demography

Population in the catchment (Figure 5) has increased from 879809 in 2001 to 1014711 in 2011 (Census of India) and is projected to increase to 1092504 in the year 2016 at a growth rate of 15.3% per decade. Population density in the catchment is 277.5 persons per square kilometer as on 2016. Major Population is contained at towns such as Ankola, Yellapura, Hubli, Dharwad, Mundgod, Sirsi, etc.
Communities: Ambiga, Arer, Bandi, Bedar, Bandaris, Brahmins, Devadiga, Devalis, Gabit, Ganiga, Gouli, Gudikar, Harikanta, Hulsvara, Kahrvi, Vaishyas, Maratha, Kumri Maratha, Lingayath,, Maratha Kubri, Nadava, Namdharis, Padits, Gidbudukis, Siddis, Buddists, Jains, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians,etc. (Chandran and Hughes 2000, Wikipedia, Gazetter of India-Uttara Kannada district). 

Figure 5: Population dynamics in Gangavali river catchment

5

History, Culture, Heritage

• Festivals and Jatras: Uura habba (Village Festival), Nadi habba (River festival), Bandi habba, Vadya Panchami, Mahamay jatra, Durga devi jatra, Kannika parameshwari jatra, Shantika parameshwari jatra, Venkataramana jatra, etc
• Dance: Folk dances (suggi kunita), bharatha natya, Kolata, bedara kunita, dhamami kunita, Huli kunita, Yakshagana, Masti Kunita, Preta kuntia, Bedara kunita, Mandala kunita, etc
• Music: Folk Songs, Garatiya Haadu, Halliya Haadu, Nadapadagalu, Bingina pada, Gumatepada, Jogavve haadu, Doni pada, Jogi pada, Badi vadya etc.
• Traditional Games: Kallata, kavade, Channe mane, Karu aata, Katte aata, Hulighatta, Bandi aata, Devarata, Sariya mugila aata, Achchu aata, Chowkabara, Tabalamane, etc.

Major temples in the catchment of Gangavali includes: Mari Kamba, Someshewara, Ganga Temple, Chandramauleshwara, Navagraha teertha,

5

Land use dynamics

Land use analysis of 2013 show that the catchment forest cover is about 32.16 % (about 18.17% covered with evergreen species). Figure 6 depicts FCC of the catchment, Figure 7 and Table 1 depicts land use in the catchment as on 2013. The catchment is dominated by agriculture in the plains (34.89% of total area)

Figure 6: False colour composite

Figure 7: Land use dynamics in Gangavali Catchment
Table1: Land use in Gangavali Catchment

6

Agriculture, Irrigation

Variety of Paddy, Sugar cane, Banana, Arecanut, Coconut, Mango, spices, Jowar, Ragi, Ground Nut, Cotton, etc.

7

Diversions/Storage Structures

Numerous small scale diversions (check dams, bunds) can be found along the valley (the plains are dominated by lakes namely Neersagara, Devargudihal, etc…)

8

Bio Diversity

Fishes: Mahima et al 2016
Cephalopholis boenak, Caranx ignobilis, Trichiurus lepturus, Colletteichthys dussumieri, Nemipterus japonicus, Sardinella fimbriata, Opisthopterus tardoore, Stolephorus commersonnii, Thryssa mystax, Siganus vermiculatus, Sillago sihama, Otolithes ruber, Sphyraena barracuda, Lactarius lactarius, Eubleekeria splendens, Lobotes surinamensis, Secutor insidiator, Johnius belangeri, Sphyraena obtusata, Lutjanus johnii, Lutjanus russellii, Synaptura commersonnii, Grammoplites scaber, Arius arius, Tricanthus biaculeatus, Arothron stellatus, Etroplus suratensis, Monopterus albus, Pisoodonophis cancrivorus, Mugil cephalus, Liza parsia, Scatophagus argus, Lutjanus argentimaculatus, Glossogobius giuris, Gerres filamentosus, Eleutheronema tetradactylum, Terapon jarbua, Gerres limbatus, Secutor ruconius, Lates calcarifer, Ambassis ambassis, Apogon hyalosoma and Cynoglossus punticeps, etc.
Bivalves: Boominathan et al, 2014, Ramesha et al 2013
Paphia malabarica, Katelysia opima, Meretrix meretrix, Meretrix casta, Villorita cyprinoides, Perna viridis, Tegillarca granosa, Polymesoda erosa,. L. marginalis, Parreysia corrugate, P. favidens, P. rajahensis, P. theobaldi
Flora: Ramchandra et al, 2012,
http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new (Sirsi,  Yellapura, Ankola, Hubli Taluks) Forest types found in the district are: Evergreen, Semi Evergreen, Moist Deciduous, Scrub, Thorny, un wooded with following species.
Endemic Flowering Species (Trees, Shrubs, Plants):
Actinodaphne hookeri, Aerides maculosum, Aerides crispa, Aglaia anamalayana, Ancistrocladus heyneanus, Arenga wightii, Argostemma courtallense, Artocarpus hirsuta, Arundinella metzii, Asystastia dalzelliana, Begonia integrifolia, Begonia malabarica, Beilschmiedia fagifolia, Blepharis asperrima, Boesenbergia pulcherrima, Calamus thwaitesii, Canscora decurrens, Canscora perfoliata, Canthium parviflorum, Casearia rubescens, Chrysophyllum roxburghii, Cinnamomum macrocarpum, Cleisostoma tenuifolium, Connarus wightii, Crotalaria filipes, Crotolaria heyneana, Cryptocoryne spiralis, Curcuma neilgherrensis, Cyanotis papilionaceae, Cyanotis tuberosa, Cyclea peltata, Dimeria hohenackeri, Dimorphocalyx beddomei, Diospyros assimilis, Diospyros candolleana, Diospyros paniculata, Diospyros saldanhae, Drypetes elata, Dysoxylum malabaricum, Erinocarpus nimmonii, Ervatamia heyneana, Euonymus indicus, Flacourtia montana, Garcinia indica, Glochidion johnstonei, Grewia umbellifera, Holigarna arnotiana, Holigarna ferruginea, Holigarna grahamii, Hopea ponga, Hydnocarpus laurifolia, Jasminum malabaricum, Knema attenuata, Linociera malabarica, Litsea floribunda, Litsea laevigata, Mammea suriga, Memecylon talbotianum, Memecylon umbellatum, Memecylon wightii, Myristica malabarica, Neanotis foetida, Nothopegia colebrookeana, Oberonia brunoniana, Oberonia recurva, Oberonia santapaui, Ochlandra scriptoria, Orophea zeylanica, Pittosporum dasycaulon, Polyalthia fragrans, Porpax reticulata, Porpax jerdoniana, Psychotria dalzellii, Psychotria flavida, Psychotria truncata, Pterospermum reticulatum, Sageraea laurifolia, Strobilanthus heyneanus, Symplocos racemosa, Syzygium laetum, Syzygium macrocephala, Tragia hispida, Vepris bilocularis, Walsura trifolia.
Trees:
Acacia spp, Actinodaphne hookeri, Adina cordifolia, Aglaia anamalayana, Aglaia roxbhurgii, Ailanthus excelsa, Alangium salvifolium, Albizzia lebbeck, Alstonia scholaris, Alseodaphne semecarpifolia, Anacardium occidentale, Annonaceae sp, Anogeissus latifolia, Antidesma menasu, Aporosa lindleyana, Artocarpus hirsuta, Artocarpus gomezianus, Atlantia racemosa, Bauhinia foveolata, Beilschmiedia fagifolia, Bombax ceiba, Bridelia crenulata, Buchanania lanzan, Butea monosperma, Careya arborea, Carallia brachiata, Caryota urens, Cassine glauca, Cassia spp, Casuarina spp, Chrysophyllum roxburghii, Cinnamomum macrocarpum, Dalbergia latifolia, Dillenia pentagyna, Diospyros assimilis, Diospyros buxifolia, Diospyros candolleana, Diospyros ebenum, Diospyros melanoxylon, Diospyros buxifolia, Diospyros montana, Diospyros oocarpa, Diospyros paniculata, Diospyros spp, Dysoxylum malabaricum, Ervatamia heyneana, Euphorbiaceae spp, Ficus benghalensis, Ficus drupacea, Ficus nervosa, Ficus racemosa, Ficus spp, Ficus tsjahela, Flacourtia montana, Garcinia gummi-gutta, Garcinia indica, Garcinia morella, Gliricidia sepium, Gmelina arborea, Grewia tiliaefolia, Heterophragma roxburgii, Hiptage benghalensis, Holigarna arnotiana, Holigarna ferruginea, Holigarna grahamii, Hopea ponga, Hydnocarpus laurifolia, Ixora arborea, Ixora brachiata, Knema attenuata, Lagerstroemia microcarapa, Lannea coromandelica, Lepisanthes tetraphylla, Linociera malabarica, Litsea spp, Lophopetalum wightianum, Macaranga peltata, Madhuca latifolia, Mallotus philippensis, Mangifera indica, Mimusops elengi, Mitragyna parviflora, Myristica malabarica, Olea dioica, Pajanalia longifolia, Persea macrantha, Phyllanthus emblica, Polyalthia fragrans, Pterospermum diversifolium, Pterocarpus marsupium, Randia dumetorum, Saccopetalum tomentosum, Santalum album, Sapindus laurifolia, Saraca asoca, Schleichera oleosa, Scutia myrtina, Sageraea laurifolia, Semecarpus anacardium, Sapium insigne, Spondias pinnata, Steriospermum personatum, Sterculia guttata, Strychnos nux-vomica, Symplocos racemosa, Syzygium caryophyllatum, Syzygium cumini, Syzygium gardnerii, Syzygium hemesphericum, Syzygium laetum, Tectona grandis, Terminalia bellirica, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia paniculata, Terminalia alata. etc…
Fauna: : http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new
Mammals: Tiger, Black Panther, Leopard, Bison, Gaur, Hare, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Deer, Thar, Bonnet Macaque, Lion Tailed Macaque, Giant Squirrel, Hanuman Languor, etc.
Reptiles: Snakes (Vipers, Cobra, Rat snake, Crate, King cobra, Python, Wolf snake, etc), Monitor Lizard, Crocodile.

9

References

• Survey of India Topographic Sheets, 1:50000 scale.
• Water Resource Information System of India, http://www.india-wris.nrsc.gov.in.
• Google Earth, https://www.google.com/earth/.
• Ramachandra, T.V., Chandran, M. D, S., Joshi, N. V., Karthick, B., and Vishnu, D. M., 2015, Ecohydrology of Lotic Systems in Uttara Kannada, Central Western Ghats, India, Environmental Management of River Basin Ecosystems – Earthy System Science, 621-655.
• Mahima, B., Nayak, V. N., Chandran, M. D. S., and Ramachandra, T. V., 2016,  Inventory of fishes of Gangavali estuary in Uttara Kannada, Karnataka state, Journal of Marine Biology Association of India, 58 (1), 69 – 74 (http://mbai.org.in/php/journaldload.php?id=2381&bkid=115)
• Boominathan, M., Ravikumar, G., Chandran, M. D. S., and Ramachandra, T. V., 2014, Impact of Hydroelectric Projects on Bivalve Clams in the Sharavathi Estuary of Indian West Coast, The Open Ecology Journal,7, 52 – 58.
• Ramesha, M. M., Sophia, S., and Muralidhar, M., 2013, Freshwater bivalve fauna in the Western Ghats rivers of Karnataka, India: Diversity, distribution patterns, threats and conservation needs, International Journal of Current Research, 5(9), 2500 – 2505
• Ramachandra, T. V., Chandran, M. D. S., Prakash, M., Rao, G. R., Bharath, S., Bharath, H. A., Harsish, R. B., Sumesh, N. D.,Gautham, K., Sudarshan, P. B., Boominathan, M., Balachandran, C., Vishnu, D. M., and Shrikant, N.,, 2012, Biological Diversity, Ecology and Environment Impact Assessment with Mitigation Measures: Hubli-Ankola New Broad Gauge Railway line, CES Technical Report 125, Energy & Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012.
• Census of India, 2001 and 2011, censusindia.gov.in.
• Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirsi,_Karnataka.
• ENVIS Sahyadri Web Portal, http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodiversity/database_new/
• http://www.karnataka.gov.in/Gazetteer
• Chandran, M. D. S., and Hughes, J. D., 2000, Sacred Groves and Conservation: The Comparative History of Traditional Reserves in the Mediterranean Area and in South India, Environment and History, 6, 2, 169–186.
• Gazetter of India, Uttara kannada district, 1985

10.0

Mahadayi -Mandovi

1

Geography

River Mahadayi is Spread across the Districts of Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra. Originating at Khanpur (Belgaum-Karnataka), Mahadayi flows for a distance of nearly 117 km (http://thesurveyofindia.gov.in, Survey of India Topographic sheets) before it joins Arabian Sea at Panji (North-Goa) (Figure 1).

Figure 1: Mahadayi River

Tributaries of Mahadayi include, Kalasa Nala, Surla Nala, Haltar Nala, Poti Nala, Mahadayi Nala, Pansheer Nala, Bail Nala, Andher Nala and many more. Mahadayi river has a catchment area of 2032 sq.km.
Topography of Mahadayi river: Elevation ranges between < 0m and > 980m w.r.t Mean Sea Level, slope of the catchment varies up to 150%. Very high slope we observed in the Ghats (Braganja Ghats).
The variations in the terrain has led to formation of various water falls such as the Doodhsagar falls,Vajra poha falls  etc.
Rock types: Granites to schists, shale, quartzite’s, Phyllites. Charnockites. etc.
Ores: Iron, limestone, bauxite, quartz, limestone, sand, clay, lime shell, Manganese, Asbestos, Mica, Lead, Cadmium,
Soil: Kanhaplic Rhodustalfs, Kanhaplic Hapustalfs, Typic Kandiustalfs, Ustoxic Kanhaplustalfs, Typic Ustropepts, Ustic Kandihumults, Ustic Haplohumults, Kandic Paleustalfs, Typic Rhodustalfs,  Typic Chromusterts, Rhodic Paleustalfs, Ustic Palehumults, etc.

2

Rainfall and Water Yield

Rainfall assessment in Mahadayi catchment indicates that rainfall in the catchment is orographic with annual rainfall varying spatially between 1918 mm at the plains(Khanapur), to over 5425 mm at the Ghats (Gavalli).
Water yield in the catchment is 3164 M.cum to 5703 M.cum.

3

Anthropology

Major Population is contained at towns such as Belgaum, Panji.
Communities: Kumri Marati, Goudas, Konkanis. Havyaka Brahmin, , Kurubas, Siddis, Daivajna, Muslims, Christians, etc. 

4

Land use

Table 1 depicts land use changes in the catchment

Table1: Land use in  Mahadayi Catchment

5

Agriculture, Irrigation

Variety of Paddy, Sugar cane, Banana, Arecanut, Coconut, Mango, spices, Cashew nut etc.

6

Diversions

No major diversion works in the catchment, however numerous small scale check dams are built for irrigation practice.

7

Bio Diversity

Bivalves: EIA of Proposed Mahadayi HEP,1997
Flora: Forest types found in the district are: Evergreen, Semi Evergreen, Moist Deciduous, Scrub, Thorny, un wooded with following species.
Acacia sp.,  Artabotrys hexapetalus,  Atlantia recemosa,  Bombax sp,  Butea monosperma,  Calophyllum wightianum,  Calophyllum elatum,  Carallia brachiata,  Careya arborea,  Cassia fistula,  Cinnamomum zeylancium,  Dalbergia latifolia,  Dillenia pentagyana,  Diospyros candolleana,  Diospyros montana,  Embilca officinalis,  Euphoria longana,  Ficus benghalensis,  Ficus religiosa,  Glycosmis sp.,  Holigarna arnotiana,  Hopea parviflora,  Ixora brachiata,  Lagerstroemia lanceolata,  Lygodium sp.,  Lophopetalum wightianum,  Macaranga peltata,  Mallotus philippensis,  Mangifera indica,  Memecylon edula,  Mimusops elengi,  Myristica sp.,  Olea dioica,  Pongamia sp.,  Pongamia pinnata,  Randia dumetorum,  Spatholobus sp.,  Strobilanthes sp.,  Symploca sp.,  Syzygium cumini,  Tectona grandis,  Terminalia chebula,  Terminalia paniculata,  Terminalia tomentosa,  Vitex negundo,  Xanthium sp.,  Ziziphus oenoplia,  Artocarpus hirsutus,  Falconeria sp,  Garcinia indica,  Holigarna sp,  Madhuca indica,  Syzygium sp,  etc
Fauna: : EIA of Proposed Mahadayi HEP,1997

Mammals: Tiger, Black Panther, Leopard, Bison, Gaur, Hare, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Deer, Thar, Bonnet Macaque, Lion Tailed Macaque, Giant Squirrel, Hanuman Languor, Wroughton’s Freetailed bat (endemic-endangered), Sambar, Chital, Porcupine, Giant Squirrel, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer,
Reptiles: Snakes (Vipers, Cobra, Rat snake, Crate, King cobra, Python, Wolf snake, Blind snake, Shield tail snake, Boa, Banded kurki, Russel Kurki snake, Flying snake, coral snake, Russel viper, rat snake, etc), Monitor Lizard.

9

References

• Survey of India Topographic Sheets, 1:50000 scale, http://thesurveyofindia.gov.in
• Water Resource Information System of India, http://www.india-wris.nrsc.gov.in.
• Google Earth, https://www.google.com/earth/.
• Census of India, 2001 and 2011, http://censusindia.gov.in.
• Environmental Impact assessment of proposed Mahadayi Hydroelectric Project, KPCL, Bangalore September 1997

11

Bio-monitoring to Assess River Health

12

Threats to river ecosystems of Uttara Kannada

Figure 7: check dam and loss of riparian vegetation. Site: Beegar, Yellapura

Figure 9: Site showing sewage flowing in tributary of Bedthi

Figure 9: sewage inflow in the tributary of Bedthi

Figure 10: Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) in Kervada, Paper Mill effluent confluence point in Kali River Basin

Figure 11: Mechanized sand mining in Kali River Basin

Region

Problem

Remedial Measures

Kali

Dandeli

Paper mill effluent

Enforce effluent treatment by the industry  (implementation of the control of water pollution, Polluter pays principle)

Kali

Ramnagar

Non-point source pollution in
streams and rivers from Agriculture fields

Avoiding intense use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides

Kali

Honkon (Brackish)

Mechanized sand mining

Stopping of sand mining in certain ecologically sensitive region and regulated sand mining in selected localities

Bedthi

Sangdevarkoppa

Non-point source pollution

Avoiding intense use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides

Bedthi

Kalghatghi

Urban domestic sewage, non-point source pollution

Implementation of sewage treatment plant in Hubli town. Sewage should be treated before letting in to the river.

Bedthi

Kalghatghi

Solid Waste Disposal in River

Setting up Solid waste treatment and landfill facility in outskirts of Hubli town.

Manchikeri

Urban domestic sewage, non-point source pollution

Implementation of sewage treatment plant in Hubli town. Sewage should be treated before letting in to the river.

Sharavathi

Gerusoppa and downstream

Mechanized sand mining

Stopping of sand mining in certain ecologically sensitive region and regulated sand mining in selected localities