Geography2011
The Brahmaputra, Irrawaddy and Mekong rivers originate in Tibet and flow through narrow and parallel mountain ranges in their upper reaches. Of these rivers, Brahmaputra makes a “U’’ turn in its course to flow into India. This “U” turn is due to
Explanation
The Brahmaputra River's "U" turn occurs due to the syntaxial bending of the geologically young Himalayas, a result of tectonic processes where the Indian plate collides with the Eurasian plate. This collision creates complex geological structures, resulting in the river's course being diverted as it navigates the rugged terrain of the Himalayas. This understanding is crucial for UPSC Prelims GS Paper I as it integrates concepts of physical geography, tectonics, and river systems, highlighting the dynamic processes that shape landforms and their impact on drainage patterns.