Eastern Ghats

Definition

The Eastern Ghats are a mountain range located along the eastern coast of India, stretching from Odisha in the north to Tamil Nadu in the south. They are characterized by a series of low hills and plateaus, distinct from the higher and more continuous Western Ghats, and play a significant role in the climate, biodiversity, and agriculture of the region.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Eastern Ghats are generally lower in elevation compared to the Western Ghats, with the highest peak being Arma Konda at 1,680 meters.
2. These mountains are home to several important rivers, including the Godavari and Krishna, which originate from the Western Ghats and flow eastward towards the Bay of Bengal.
3. The Eastern Ghats are rich in biodiversity, hosting numerous endemic plant and animal species, and have been recognized as a biodiversity hotspot due to ongoing conservation efforts.
4. Agriculture in the region is influenced by the Eastern Ghats' climate; they receive seasonal monsoon rains that support crops like rice, millet, and various pulses.
5. The Eastern Ghats face environmental threats such as deforestation, mining activities, and urbanization, which pose risks to their ecosystems and local communities.

Review Questions

• How do the Eastern Ghats influence local climate and agriculture in southeastern India?
  • The Eastern Ghats influence local climate by blocking moisture-laden winds from reaching inland areas, resulting in distinct rainfall patterns. This effect supports agriculture in the region by providing necessary seasonal monsoon rains. As a result, crops such as rice, millet, and various pulses thrive in areas around the Eastern Ghats, making them essential for local farming communities.
• Compare the ecological significance of the Eastern Ghats with that of the Western Ghats in terms of biodiversity.
  • While both the Eastern and Western Ghats are significant for their biodiversity, the Western Ghats are known for higher elevations and a greater variety of flora and fauna. The Eastern Ghats, although lower in elevation, also serve as a biodiversity hotspot with many endemic species. However, both ranges face similar environmental threats such as deforestation and habitat loss, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts across both regions.
• Evaluate the impact of human activities on the ecosystems of the Eastern Ghats and suggest potential strategies for sustainable development.
  • Human activities like deforestation, mining, and urbanization have significantly impacted the ecosystems of the Eastern Ghats by leading to habitat loss and fragmentation. To mitigate these effects, strategies such as promoting sustainable land use practices, implementing strict regulations on mining activities, and engaging local communities in conservation efforts can be effective. Additionally, restoring degraded areas and protecting key habitats will help maintain biodiversity while allowing for responsible development.

Related terms

Western Ghats:

A continuous mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India, known for its high elevation and rich biodiversity.

Deccan Plateau: A large plateau in south-central India that is bounded by the Eastern and Western Ghats, forming a significant geographical region with diverse ecosystems.

Biodiversity Hotspot: Regions that are both rich in endemic species and threatened by habitat loss, which include areas like the Eastern Ghats due to their unique flora and fauna.