Which of the following rivers ends in the Arabian Sea? 

The correct answer is Narmada.

Key Points

• Narmada River is one of the major rivers in India that flows westward and drains into the Arabian Sea.
• The Narmada originates from the Amarkantak Plateau in Madhya Pradesh and flows through the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
• It is also referred to as the "Lifeline of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat" due to its significant contribution to irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power generation.
• The river flows for approximately 1,312 kilometers before merging into the Arabian Sea.
• It forms the traditional boundary between North and South India and is one of the few rivers in India that flows westward, unlike most other major rivers that flow eastward.

Additional Information

• Westward-Flowing Rivers of India
  • Rivers like Narmada, Tapi, Mahi, and Sabarmati flow westward and drain into the Arabian Sea.
  • These rivers are exceptions as most Indian rivers flow eastward into the Bay of Bengal.
  • The westward flow is attributed to the geological tilting of the Indian subcontinent towards the west during its formation.
• Significance of the Narmada River
  • The river is home to several important dams, including the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the Indira Sagar Dam, which are vital for water supply, irrigation, and hydroelectric power.
  • The Narmada Valley is known for its fertile soil, supporting agriculture in the region.
• Religious and Cultural Importance
  • The Narmada is considered a sacred river in Hinduism, and it is believed that a parikrama (circumambulation) of the river can cleanse sins.
  • It is associated with several mythological legends and is revered in texts like the Puranas.
• Geological Features
  • The Narmada River flows through the rift valley formed due to the faulting of the Indian Plate.
  • Its course features picturesque landscapes, including marble rocks near Bhedaghat in Madhya Pradesh.