Kopili
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Overview
The Kopili rises in the Meghalaya plateau and flows north into Assam, joining the Brahmaputra through the Kolong channel.
The Kopili hydroelectric project in Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong districts uses its water. Acid mine drainage from coal mining in Meghalaya has been found to affect the river.
The river valley separates the Karbi Anglong hills from the main Meghalaya plateau.
Geography and key facts
- South-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra
- Rises in Meghalaya
- Kopili hydroelectric project
- Affected by acid mine drainage
Why it matters for UPSC
Rat-hole coal mining in Meghalaya and its effects on rivers is a GS-3 environmental case.
Note for UPSC
A south-bank tributary from Meghalaya into Assam.
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 Kopili yet.
Key facts
- Type
- River
- States / UTs on its course
- Assam, Meghalaya
- River system
- Himalayan
- Basin
- Brahmaputra
- Extent on map
- 25.2°–26.3°N, 91.9°–92.9°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)
- The Harappan (Indus Valley) Civilisation (map lesson)
- Harappan Civilisation: Sites, Town Planning and Phases (map lesson)
- Mahajanapadas and the Rise of Magadha (map lesson)