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Why is it in the news?
The Mahisagar River (also called Mahi River) recently made headlines in 2025 due to a tragic bridge collapse at the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge in Gujarat’s Vadodara district. This accident highlighted the importance of infrastructure safety and the river’s critical role in the region’s ecology, economy, and geography. Today, Mahisagar remains one of India’s most important west-flowing interstate rivers, traversing Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat before entering the Arabian Sea near Khambhat.
Important Point about Mahisagar River
- Originates from the northern slopes of the Vindhya Mountain Range in Madhya Pradesh at around 500 meters above sea level.
- Approximately 583 km, making it one of the longest rivers flowing westward in peninsular India.
- It flows through Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan (Vagad region and Banswara district), and Gujarat. Before entering Gujarat, it forms a U-shaped loop in Rajasthan.
- Covers an area of approximately 34,842 sq km, touching parts of three states.
- Empties into the Arabian Sea at the Gulf of Khambhat near Khambhat town.
- Bordered by the Aravalli Hills on the north and northwest, Malwa Plateau on the east, Vindhya Range on the south, and Gulf of Khambhat on the west.
- The river crosses the Tropic of Cancer twice.
- Home to important dams like Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam and Kadana Dam, which support irrigation, water supply, and power generation.
- The river is worshipped by many, with temples and holy places along its banks. It is often referred to as “Mahisagar”, meaning great or vast ocean, highlighting its significance.
FAQs
Q1: Where does the Mahisagar River originate?
A: It originates from the northern slopes of the Vindhya Mountain Range in Madhya Pradesh at about 500 meters above sea level.
Q2: What states does the Mahisagar River flow through?
A: It flows through Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan (Vagad region), and Gujarat before emptying into the Arabian Sea.
Q3: What is the total length of the Mahisagar River?
A: The river is approximately 583 kilometers long.
Q4: Name important dams on the Mahisagar River.
A: Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam and Kadana Dam are the major dams on the river.
Q5: Why is the Mahisagar River called “Mahisagar”?
A: The term means “great ocean,” reflecting the river’s vast course and cultural importance.
Q6: What recent major event brought Mahisagar into the news?
A: The Gambhira-Mujpur bridge collapse over the river in July 2025 highlighted safety concerns and brought the river to national attention.
