The Brahmaputra River System: Course, Tributaries, and Impact

Introduction

The Brahmaputra River, originating from the Kailash ranges, passes through Tibet, India, and Bangladesh, making it one of the largest rivers globally. With its vast catchment area and significant discharge, it shapes the landscapes and livelihoods of millions across its path. From its steep slopes in Tibet to the braided channels of Assam, the Brahmaputra’s journey is marked by diversity and dynamism.

Course of The Brahmaputra River

• Origin: Chemayungdung glacier in the Kailash range near Mansarovar Lake
• In southern Tibet, it is known as the Tsangpo. Rango Tsangpo serves as the major right-bank tributary in Tibet.
• Namcha Barwa: it takes a ‘U’ turn and enters India as Dihang. 
  • It enters Assam Plains near Sadiya from where it is known as Brahmaputra.
• Enters Bangladesh: near Dhubri.  
  • In Bangladesh, it is joined by Tista (right bank), after which it is called  Jamuna.
• Padma: When it merges with Ganga, it is known as Padma. 
• Meghana: After the Padma river is joined by Meghana River, it is collectively known as Meghana.
• Brahmaputra Basin: Its basin is spread over the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Sikkim. 
• Catchments Area: In Tibet, it is         2, 93,000 Sq. Km; 
  • India and Bhutan: It is 2,40,000 Sq. Km and in 
  • Bangladesh: It is 47,000 Sq. Km. The Brahmaputra basin extends over an area of 5,80,000 Sq. Km up to its confluence within Bangladesh.
• Delta: It forms the world’s largest and fastest-growing delta.
• Features: It is well-known for floods, channel shifting and bank erosion. Reasons – large tributaries, large quantity of sediments and heavy rainfall in its catchment area.

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Tributaries of the river Brahmaputra

• Left Bank tributaries: 
  • Very steep slopes,
  • Braided channels, shallow in depth, extend from the foothills over a significant distance
  • boulder, pebble and coarse sandy beds and carry a heavy silt charge.
  • Generally have flashy floods
  • Example: Burhi Dihing, Desang, Dikhow, Lohit, Dibang, Dhansiri and Kopili 
• Right Bank Tributaries: Comparatively flatter grades, deep meandering channels almost from the foothills and comparatively low silt charge.
  • Examples: Subansiri (Origin: Tibet, antecedent), Jiabharali Kameng, Manas (Transboundary river), Torsa, Sankosh and Teesta. [UPSC 2016]

Conclusion

The Brahmaputra River, with its mighty flow and network of tributaries, sustains life and ecosystems across its basin. From the rugged terrain of Tibet to the fertile plains of Assam, its journey reflects the interplay of geology, climate, and human activity. Understanding this river’s dynamics is crucial for managing resources and mitigating the impacts of floods and other natural phenomena in the region.

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