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Who is it in the News
The Tawi River recently gained national attention due to severe monsoon rains causing swells and flooding in Jammu city, highlighting its geographic and environmental importance. As a key tributary of the Chenab River, this river shapes the life and urban landscape of Jammu and remains critical for water supply, agriculture, and power generation.
About Tawi River
- The Tawi River originates from the Kailash Kund glacier in Bhaderwah, nestled in the Doda district of Jammu & Kashmir.
- It flows a distance of approximately 141 km, traversing Himalayan terrain before reaching the plains near Jammu city.
- The river’s catchment area is about 2,168 sq km, spreading across Jammu, Udhampur, and Doda districts.
- It passes through the city of Jammu, dividing it into old and new sectors, and eventually merges with the Chenab River in Pakistan’s Punjab province.
Geographical Importance
- Tawi’s source in glacier-fed mountains makes it a vital snowmelt and rain-fed river critical to Jammu’s water supply and agriculture.
- The river’s width near Jammu city is roughly 300 meters, affecting urban planning and flood management in the region.
- The river is known to swell during the monsoon season, sometimes causing flooding that impacts thousands of residents.
- The Chenani Hydroelectric Project (23 MW) on the river harnesses its water for clean energy generation.
- It holds religious significance, often referred to as “Surya Putri” (Daughter of the Sun) in ancient texts and local folklore.
FAQs
Q1: Where does the Tawi River originate and what is its length?
Answer: The Tawi River originates from the Kailash Kund glacier in Bhaderwah, Doda district, flowing approximately 141 km before joining the Chenab River.
Q2: What is the significance of the Tawi River for Jammu?
Answer: Tawi is the main source of drinking water and irrigation for Jammu and plays a central role in the city’s geography and culture.
Q3: Does Tawi River have any hydroelectric projects?
Answer: Yes, the Chenani Hydroelectric Project on the Tawi River has a capacity of 23 MW, providing clean energy to the region.
