Mahadayi River

Mahadayi River

Why it Matters? 

  • Karnataka asserts it will proceed with the Mahadayi river diversion project despite Goa’s opposition and plans to push for central clearances through an all-party delegation to Delhi.  

What You Should Know? 

  • Mahadayi River is also known as Mandovi or Mhadei and is considered the lifeline of Goa. 

  • It is a rain-fed river originating in the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, Western Ghats, Karnataka. 

  • The river flows through Karnataka, Maharashtra (for about 1 km), and Goa. 

  • It drains into the Arabian Sea at Panaji, the capital city of Goa. 

  • Major tributaries include Rogaro, Kushavati, Nanorem, Nanuz, Valvota, and Mapusa. 

  • The Cumbarjua Canal links the Mahadayi River with the Zuari River. 

  • Panaji is located on the left bank of the Mandovi River. 

  • The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is situated on Chorao Island in the Mandovi River. 

  • The Kalasa–Banduri Nala Project is a drinking water project by Karnataka on the Mahadayi River. 

  • Dudhsagar Falls, a famous tourist spot, is located on the Mandovi River in Goa. 

  • The river is at the center of a long-standing water-sharing dispute between Karnataka and Goa.