- South Koel River: Originates near Lohardaga in Jharkhand.
- Sankh River: Begins near the Jharkhand-Chhattisgarh border, close to the Netarhat Plateau.
Both rivers rise from the Chota Nagpur Plateau and meet near Rourkela in Odisha.
After the confluence, the Brahmani River flows through several districts in Odisha, including Sundargarh, Deogarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Cuttack, Jajapur, and Kendrapara. It covers a distance of approximately 480 kilometers (300 miles) before emptying into the Bay of Bengal at Palmyras Point.
Irrigation and Dam
The river is dammed at Rengali in the Anugul district, creating a large reservoir that serves as a significant source for irrigation in the region.
Biodiversity
The Brahmani River flows through the Bhitarkanika National Park, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the famous saltwater crocodiles.
Mythological Significance
The place where the Brahmani originates is associated with a mythological story. It is believed to be the site where Sage Parashara fell in love with Satyavati, who later became the mother of Ved Vyasa, the author of the Mahabharata.
Tributaries and Delta
The Brahmani, along with the Baitarani River, forms a large delta known as the Dhamra estuary. A distributary called Maipara branches off to join the Bay of Bengal, while the main stream continues northward for a few kilometers more before meeting the sea near Chandbali at Palmyras Point.
Economic Importance
The river is crucial for the economy of Odisha, providing water for agriculture, supporting fisheries, and being a source of livelihood for many communities along its banks.
The Brahmani River, with its rich cultural significance and ecological importance, is indeed a lifeline for the state of Odisha.