The Purvanchal Range: An Overview

Eastern India is home to the complex mountain range known as the Purvanchal Range, often referred to as the Eastern Mountain Range, which is largely the part of Eastern Himalaya and other eastern hills. The Purvanchal Range is located in the north-eastern states of India, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura.

The region exhibits diverse topography, climate, and soil characteristics due to its location in the eastern part of the Indian subcontinent. The range is renowned for its abundant natural resources, which include a wide range of flora and animals, as well as for its cultural and historical value.

Structure of the Purvanchal Range

The Purvanchal Range, is a vast mountain range located in the northeastern states of India, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura. It extends from the easternmost part of India, near the Brahmaputra River, to the southern part of the region, bordering Myanmar (Burma).

The structure of the Purvanchal Range is complex and primarily composed of folded and faulted rock formations. It is part of the larger Himalayan mountain system, which was formed as a result of the collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates.

Division of the Purvanchal Range

The Purvanchal Range can generally be divided into the following groups, however there is no single, widely accepted categorization.

• Eastern Himalayas − The foothills of the Eastern Himalayas are located in the northernmost section of the Purvanchal Range, which stretches from the state of West Bengal to Arunachal Pradesh.

• Patkai and Naga Hills − Continuing eastward, the Purvanchal Range includes the states of Nagaland, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh's Patkai and Naga Hills.

• Manipur Hills − The Purvanchal Range includes the Manipur Hills, which are found in the state of Manipur.

• Tripura Hills − The Tripura Hills are a representation of the Purvanchal Range in the state of Tripura.

• Mizoram, Manipur, and Kachin Rainforest − At the southernmost point of the range, Mizoram, Manipur, and a portion of Myanmar all share a section of lush rainforest.

These divisions show the main geographic areas that the Purvanchal Range encompasses, however it's crucial to note that the precise divisions may change based on the sources and interpretations used.

Geological History of the Purvanchal Range

The geological history of the Purvanchal Range is extensive and intricate, spanning millions of years. The Precambrian epoch, which spanned from roughly

billion to 541 million years ago, is when the range was constructed. The Indian subcontinent was a component of the supercontinent Gondwana during this period, which was situated close to the South Pole.

Rocks that have been changed by heat and pressure over time, or metamorphic rocks, make up the majority of the Purvanchal Range. These rocks were created between approximately 4 billion and 541 million years ago, during the Archean and Proterozoic eras. The collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates, which started some 50 million years ago, and other tectonic activities further sculpted the range. This caused the rock strata to be raised and folded, resulting in the unique ridges and valleys of the range.

Resources

Natural resources like rivers, minerals, vegetation, and animals are abundant in the Purvanchal Range. Here, are the

• Minerals − Bauxite, iron ore, manganese, coal, and gold are among the mineral resources found in the Purvanchal Range. Mineral sands including ilmenite, rutile, zircon, and monazite are also abundant in the area. Iron ore, limestone, and other minerals are abundant in the Purvanchal Range. There are gold, copper, and other precious metal reserves in the area as well.

• Rivers − Brahmaputra River, Teesta River, Barak River are just a few of the significant rivers that flow through the Purvanchal Range. These rivers are a significant source of water for industrial, domestic, and agricultural uses. These rivers are crucial for transportation and fishing, as well as for irrigation.

• Flora − The lush woods that make up the Purvanchal Range are home to a broad range of plant species. Teak, sal, bamboo, sandalwood, and other medicinal plants are among the region's rich flora's well-known species.

• Fauna − A wide range of animals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, monkeys, and many bird species, call the woods of the Purvanchal Range home. Through conservation initiatives, attempts are being undertaken to safeguard many of these species, many of which are threatened or endangered.

Conclusion

One of India's most prominent mountain ranges is the Purvanchal Range, which is renowned for its varied geography, abundant mineral riches, and rich biodiversity. It covers a number of North-east Indian states and is very important in determining the area's culture, economics, and environment. There is evidence of tectonic activity and volcanic eruptions throughout the range's complex geological past.

Several rivers, which are important water sources for the region's agriculture and businesses, are supported by the range as well. With many endemic species of plants and animals, the flora and wildlife of the Purvanchal Range are both extremely diversified. The Purvanchal Range's unique natural treasures are being worked to preserve and maintain for future generations despite environmental risks and anthropogenic pressures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main mineral resource found in the Purvanchal Range?

Bauxite is the main mineral resource found in this region.

What is the meaning of Purvanchal?

Purvanchal means Eastern foothills.

Which river originates from the Purvanchal Range?

There are many rivers that flow through purvanchal range; however, Brahmaputra River is the major one.

Which type of soil is found in the Purvanchal Range?

The major types of soil that found in purvanchal range are Laterite soil, forest and mountain soil, Alluvial soil, etc.