The Baitarani River originates from the Gonasika/Guptaganga hills in the Keonjhar district of Odisha. The river starts its journey over a stone that resembles the nostril of a cow, hence the name Guptaganga. For about half a kilometer, the river flows underground and is not visible from outside¹.
Course
The river flows for about 360 kilometers (220 miles). Initially, it flows in a northerly direction for about 80 kilometers, then turns eastward towards the Bay of Bengal. The uppermost part of the river acts as a boundary between the states of Odisha and Jharkhand.
Tributaries
The Baitarani has 65 tributaries, with significant ones including the Budhi, Kanjori, Ambajhara, Mushal, Kusei, and Salandi. The river basin is spread across 42 blocks of eight districts in Odisha¹.
Dams and Irrigation
Dams and barrages on the Baitarani and its major tributary, the Salandi, irrigate 61,920 hectares (153,000 acres). There are plans for more dams across the river and its tributaries to provide irrigation to over 1,000 square kilometers (390 square miles).
Flooding and Industry
The river is prone to flooding, which affects the local population and agriculture. It also plays a role in the industry and water quality of the region.
Cultural Impact
The Baitarani River holds a significant place in Indian epics and legends. It is considered sacred and is a source of water for agricultural irrigation, contributing to the fertility of the region.
Delta Formation
Together with the Brahmani River, the Baitarani forms a large delta known as the Dhamra estuary. The river enters a plain at Anandapur and creates a deltaic zone at Akhuapada, eventually draining into the Bay of Bengal at the Dhamra mouth near Chandabali.
Biodiversity
As it flows through the Bhitarkanika National Park, the Baitarani River supports a rich ecosystem, including mangroves and a variety of wildlife.
The Baitarani River, with its cultural significance and ecological importance, is indeed a vital river in Odisha, supporting the livelihoods of many and contributing to the state's economy and biodiversity.