India's vast coastline stretches for over 7,500 kilometers, significantly impacting its climate, economy, and coastal lifestyles. Which among the following coastal plains is known for its lagoons, backwaters, and comparatively recent geological formation?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is Malabar Coast.
Explanation:
☛ The Malabar Coast lies on the south-western coast of India, predominantly along the state of Kerala and southern Karnataka.
☛ This coastal plain is renowned for its distinctive coastal features called lagoons and backwaters, locally known as Kayals.
☛ Geologically, the Malabar coastal plain is of comparatively recent origin, shaped by marine transgressions, regressions, and sediment deposition during the Quaternary period.
☛ Prominent backwater systems located here include Vembanad Lake (India's longest lake) and Ashtamudi Lake, both designated as Ramsar wetland sites.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Konkan Coast: Spans from Daman in the north to Goa in the south across Maharashtra and Goa, characterized by rocky cliffs, creeks, and drowned river mouths.
☛ Coromandel Coast: Forms the southern section of the eastern coastal plain between the Krishna River delta and Kanyakumari, notable for receiving rainfall during winter from the Northeast monsoon.
☛ Northern Circars: Refers to the northern part of the eastern coastal plain stretching between the Mahanadi and Krishna river deltas in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
☛ Nehru Trophy Boat Race: The famous traditional snake boat race (Vallam Kali) is conducted annually in the Punnamada Lake on the Malabar Coast.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which is the longest lake in India, situated on the Malabar Coast? → Vembanad Lake
☛ What local term is used for the backwaters and lagoons found along the Kerala coast? → Kayals
☛ Which coast of India receives the bulk of its rainfall from the retreating or Northeast monsoon? → Coromandel Coast
☛ What is the total coastline length of mainland India, including its island territories? → 7,516.6 km
☛ Which Indian state has the longest mainland coastline? → Gujarat