Let’s explore the major physical regions of Uttar Pradesh and delve into the geographical features of the Bhabar and Terai regions:
- Major Physical Regions of Uttar Pradesh:
- Gangetic Plain: Constitutes the central portion of the state. It is a vast alluvial plain formed by the Ganges and its tributaries. The soil is fertile, and agriculture thrives here.
- Shivalik Hills: Form the southern foothills of the Himalayas. These hills are part of the Siwalik Range and run parallel to the Himalayas.
- Terai and Bhabar Region: Lies between the Shivalik Hills and the Gangetic Plain.
- Bhabar Region:
- Location: The Bhabar is a narrow strip of land at the base of the Himalayas.
- Geographical Features:
- Porosity: The soil in the Bhabar region is porous.
- Water Seepage: Streams from the Himalayas disappear into the permeable sediments of the Bhabar.
- Underground Water: The underground water level is deep in this region.
- Surface Rise: The water rises to the surface in the Terai region below the Bhabar.
- Rivers: The Ganges River lies to the west, and the Sharda River lies to the east.
- Trade and Commerce Hubs: Being at the junction of the Himalayas and the Indo-Gangetic Plain, the Bhabar contains important trade and commerce hubs.
- Terai Region:
- Location: The Terai lies south of the Bhabar and extends into Nepal.
- Geographical Features:
- Forests: Dense forests cover the Terai region.
- Marshy Grasslands: Wetland areas are common.
- Agriculture: While much of the lowland forests have been cleared for agriculture, some pockets of natural vegetation remain.
In summary, the Bhabar and Terai regions play significant roles in the geography and economy of Uttar Pradesh.