Difference between Eastern and Western Coastal Plains
Coastal plains are stretches of flat, low-lying land adjacent to coastlines. These regions have distinct features and characteristics depending on their location. In this article, we will explore the differences between the eastern and western coastal plains, focusing on their geographical attributes, examples, uses, and more.
What are Eastern Coastal Plains?
The eastern coastal plains are the flatlands that lie along the eastern coast of India. They span from the deltas of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers in the north to the Kanyakumari in the south. These plains are rich in alluvial soil and are known for their significant agricultural activities.
Examples of Eastern Coastal Plains:
Some prominent examples of eastern coastal plains include:
- The Mahanadi delta in Odisha
- The Godavari delta in Andhra Pradesh
- The Krishna delta in Andhra Pradesh
- The Kaveri delta in Tamil Nadu
Uses of Eastern Coastal Plains:
The eastern coastal plains have immense agricultural potential due to their fertile soil. They are extensively used for cultivating crops such as rice, wheat, jute, and sugarcane. Fishing, salt production, and aquaculture are also important economic activities in this region.
What are Western Coastal Plains?
The western coastal plains run along the Arabian Sea coast of India. They stretch from the Gujarat region in the north to the Konkan coast of Maharashtra and the Malabar coast of Kerala in the south. These plains consist of a narrow strip of land that is flanked by the Western Ghats on the east.
Examples of Western Coastal Plains:
Some prominent examples of western coastal plains include:
- The Kachchh plain in Gujarat
- The Konkan coast in Maharashtra
- The Malabar coast in Kerala
Uses of Western Coastal Plains:
The western coastal plains are known for their tourism potential as they offer picturesque landscapes and beautiful beaches. Additionally, these plains are important for trade and transportation due to their proximity to major ports. Agriculture, especially the cultivation of coconut and cashew, is another significant economic activity here.
Differences Table:
| Difference Area | Eastern Coastal Plains | Western Coastal Plains |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Lie along the eastern coast of India | Along the western coast of India |
| Geographical Features | Alluvial soil, deltas, and marshy swamps | Narrow strip of land flanked by the Western Ghats |
| Major Rivers | Ganges, Brahmaputra, Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri | Narmada, Tapi, Sabarmati |
| Vegetation | Mangrove forests, tropical evergreen and deciduous forests | Coconut and cashew plantations, mangrove forests |
| Economic Activities | Agriculture, fishing, salt production, aquaculture | Tourism, trade, transportation, agriculture |
| Prominent Examples | Mahanadi delta, Godavari delta, Krishna delta, Kaveri delta | Kachchh plain, Konkan coast, Malabar coast |
| Climatic Conditions | Humid and tropical climate | Equable and maritime climate |
| Important Cities | Kolkata, Visakhapatnam, Puri, Chennai | Mumbai, Goa, Mangalore, Kochi |
| Topographical Features | Flat and low-lying | Gentle slopes towards the coast |
| Physical Division | Consist of several deltas and embayments | Narrow and uninterrupted strip of coastal land |
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the eastern and western coastal plains of India exhibit distinct characteristics. While the eastern coast is marked by deltas, alluvial soil, and extensive agriculture, the western coast is known for its narrow strip of land and tourist attractions.
People Also Ask:
Q: What are the main features of eastern coastal plains?
A: The main features of eastern coastal plains include fertile alluvial soil, deltas, and marshy swamps.
Q: Why are western coastal plains important?
A: Western coastal plains are important for tourism, trade, transportation, and agriculture, particularly coconut and cashew cultivation.
Q: Which rivers flow through the eastern coastal plains?
A: The Ganges, Brahmaputra, Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri rivers flow through the eastern coastal plains.
Q: What are the major cities located in the western coastal plains?
A: Mumbai, Goa, Mangalore, and Kochi are some of the major cities located in the western coastal plains.
Q: How does the climate differ between the two coastal plains?
A: The eastern coastal plains have a humid and tropical climate, whereas the western coastal plains have an equable and maritime climate.
