Bihar, a state in eastern India, is characterized by diverse landforms that significantly influence its climate, agriculture, and overall economy. The state can be broadly divided into three distinct physiographic regions:
The Shivalik Range and Terai Region
The Gangetic Plains
The Southern Plateau Region
1. The Shivalik Range and Terai Region
Location: This region lies in the northwestern part of West Champaran district, bordering Nepal.
Characteristics:
Forms the foothills of the Himalayas.
Composed of unconsolidated sediments like sandstone, shale, and conglomerate.
Narrow and elongated in shape, extending for about 32 km in length and 6-8 km in width.
Terai: This is a narrow belt of marshy land south of the Shivaliks, formed by the deposition of sediments brought down by Himalayan rivers. It is characterized by fertile soil and dense forests.
2. The Gangetic Plains
Location: This is the largest physiographic region, covering most of Bihar. It lies between the Shivaliks in the north and the Southern Plateau in the south.
Characteristics:
Composed of alluvial deposits brought down by the Ganga and its tributaries.
Flat and fertile plains, suitable for agriculture.
Further divided into:
Northern Bihar Plain: Characterized by a higher elevation and a gentle slope towards the south.
Southern Bihar Plain: Characterized by a lower elevation and a more pronounced slope towards the south.
3. The Southern Plateau Region
Location: This region lies in the southern part of Bihar, bordering Jharkhand.
Characteristics:
Composed of hard rocks like gneiss, schist, and granite.
Undulating terrain with hills and valleys.
Rich in mineral resources.
Important hills: Kaimur Hills, Rohtas Plateau, Rajmahal Hills.
Impact of Physiographic Divisions on Bihar:
Agriculture: The fertile Gangetic plains are the backbone of Bihar's agriculture, supporting the cultivation of rice, wheat, maize, and other crops. The Terai region is known for its tea gardens and sugarcane cultivation.
Mineral Resources: The Southern Plateau region is rich in mineral resources like coal, iron ore, limestone, and mica, contributing to the state's industrial development.
Water Resources: The Ganga and its tributaries provide abundant water for irrigation and other purposes. However, the flat terrain of the Gangetic plains also makes the region prone to floods.
Biodiversity: The Shivalik range and Terai region support a variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered species.
Tourism: The diverse physiography of Bihar offers opportunities for tourism, including wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls, and historical sites.