Kollidam
Loading map…
Overview
The Kollidam (Coleroon) is the northern distributary of the Kaveri. The river splits at Mukkombu near Tiruchirappalli; the island of Srirangam lies between the two arms.
The Kollidam flows east to the Bay of Bengal near Pichavaram, while the main Kaveri spreads into its delta to the south.
The Grand Anicut (Kallanai) built by the Chola king Karikala regulates the flow between the two branches and is among the oldest working water structures in the world.
Geography and key facts
- Northern distributary of the Kaveri, Tamil Nadu
- Splits at Mukkombu; Srirangam island between the arms
- Reaches the sea near Pichavaram
- Grand Anicut (Kallanai)
Why it matters for UPSC
Pichavaram mangroves, Srirangam temple and the Grand Anicut all link to this river.
Note for UPSC
The northern distributary of the Kaveri; Srirangam lies between the two.
Prelims asks about tributaries, the states a river flows through, its basin and the projects on it, so trace the course on the map.
Asked in PYQs
No question in our Prelims bank names Kollidam yet.
Key facts
- Type
- River
- State / UT
- Tamil Nadu
- River system
- Peninsular
- Basin
- Kaveri
- Extent on map
- 10.8°–11.4°N, 78.8°–79.8°E
From the Map Explorer data; positions are for orientation.
In the lessons
- Physical Features and Drainage of India (map lesson)
- Drainage Systems of India: Himalayan and Peninsular Rivers (map lesson)