Beas River in Spate: Cloudburst and Heavy Rain in Himachal Pradesh

Overview of Beas River:

The Beas River is a major river in the northwestern region of India, flowing through the states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. It has significant historical and geographical importance.

Key Details:

• Flow Location: Flows through Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, NW India.
• Historical Significance: Eastern limit of Alexander the Great’s invasion in 326 BC.
• Source: Rises at an elevation of 14,308 feet (4,361 meters) at Rohtang Pass, in the western Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh.

Course of the River:

• Flows south through Kullu Valley.
• Turns west past Mandi into Kangra Valley.
• Enters Punjab, flows south, and southwest to meet the Sutlej River at Harike.

Geographical Data:

• Length: 470 km (290 mi).
• Drainage Basin: 20,303 square kilometers (7,839 square miles).

Major Tributaries:

• Bain
• Banganga
• Luni
• Uhal
• Banner
• Chakki
• Gaj
• Harla
• Mamuni
• Parvati
• Patlikuhlal
• Sainj
• Suketi
• Tirthan

Valleys Formed by Beas River:

• Kullu Valley
• Kangra Valley

The Beas River has a vital role in the local ecosystem and economy, especially in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. Recently, heavy rain and a cloudburst in Himachal Pradesh have caused the river to swell, creating concerns for local populations.