Describe the salient features of Mahanadi river system and its impact on agriculture of Odisha.

The Mahanadi river system is one of the major river systems in India, flowing through the states of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and a small portion of Maharashtra. It is also the longest river in Odisha, with a total length of about 860 kilometers.

One of the salient features of the Mahanadi river system is its large catchment area, which spans over an area of about 141,600 square kilometers. This catchment area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and is also an important source of water for the people living in the region.

The Mahanadi river also has a number of tributaries, including the Seonath, the Pranahita, the Ong, and the Jonk. These tributaries contribute significantly to the overall flow of the river, and help to maintain its water levels throughout the year.

The Mahanadi river system has a significant impact on the agriculture of Odisha. The river is the main source of irrigation for the farmers in the region, and is also an important source of drinking water for the people living in the region. The river is also an important source of hydroelectric power, with a number of dams and power plants located along its course.

One of the major challenges faced by the Mahanadi river system is the problem of pollution. The river is often polluted by industrial and agricultural waste, which can have a negative impact on the health of the people living in the region. The government of Odisha has taken a number of steps to address this problem, including the implementation of stricter regulations on industrial and agricultural waste disposal, and the creation of a number of treatment plants to help purify the water.

Overall, the Mahanadi river system is an important natural resource for the people of Odisha, providing vital water and power resources for the region. However, it is also important that steps are taken to protect and preserve the river, in order to ensure that it continues to serve the people of the region for many years to come.