Two important rivers – one with its source in Jharkhand (and known by a different name in Odisha), and another, with its source in Odisha- merge at a place only a short distance from the coast of Bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. This is an important site of wildlife and biodiversity and a protected area. Which one of the following could be this?
- Bhitarkanika
- Chandipur-on-sea
- Gopalpur-on-sea
- Simlipal
Explanation
Option (a) is correct
- Bhitarkanika National Park is located in the state of Odisha.
- Brahmani and Baitarani rivers merge at a place close to the coast of the Bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. This merging point is within the Bhitarkanika National Park.
- Bhitarkanika National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary, Ramsar Site:
- It is the second Ramsar Site of Odisha after Chilika Lake. It is surrounded by Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary. Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary separates the National Park from the Bay of Bengal. It is inundated by the rivers Brahmani, Baitarani & Dhamra.
- It hosts many mangrove species and is the second-largest mangrove ecosystem in India.
- Major Fauna: Saltwater (Estuarine) Crocodile (LC).
- Major Flora: Mangrove species.
