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TheRivers of Maharashtra form an important component of the geography, hydrology, and cultural identity of the state ofMaharashtra, India. The state is mainly drained by three major river basins theGodavari,Krishna, andTapti (Tapi) along with numerous tributaries and regional rivers emerging from theWestern Ghats and the Satpura–Vindhya highlands. These rivers are essential for irrigation, drinking water, industry, ecology, and cultural traditions across Maharashtra.[1]
Maharashtra’s rivers flow either eastward toward theBay of Bengal or westward into theArabian Sea. Many major cities such asPune,Kolhapur,Nashik,Nagpur,Nanded,Parbhani, andSangli are situated on riverbanks, reflecting their historical significance in settlement patterns, agriculture, transport, and religious practices.
Maharashtra is divided primarily into three major river basins:
TheGodavari River, originating atTrimbakeshwar inNashik district, is the longest river in Maharashtra and the second-longest in India. It flows eastward across the Deccan plateau and supports large parts ofMarathwada andVidarbha.
Major tributaries in Maharashtra include:
Key cities:Nashik,Nanded,Paithan,Parbhani
TheKrishna River arises inMahabaleshwar and flows southeast across western Maharashtra. It is a major source of irrigation and hydropower.
Main tributaries in Maharashtra:
Important cities:Pune,Karad,Sangli,Kolhapur
TheTapti River originates in the Satpura Range and flows westward across northern Maharashtra, passing through:
Major tributaries:
Below is an alphabetical listing of the most significant rivers in the state:
Numerous smaller rivers are ecologically and economically important to local regions:
Maharashtra has extensive river-based water infrastructure, including:
These projects supply electricity, irrigation water, drinking water, and industrial water to various districts.
Rivers have shaped Maharashtra’s cultural heritage:
Major threats to river ecosystems include:
The Government of Maharashtra and local bodies have initiated several conservation projects, including: