Mahi River: The Only River in India That Crosses the Tropic of Cancer Twice

The Mahi River is the only river in India that crosses the Tropic of Cancer twice. Starting from the Vindhya Hills in Madhya Pradesh, it flows through Rajasthan and Gujarat, finally draining into the Arabian Sea. Its unique U-shaped path makes it one of India’s most interesting geographical features. Apart from its distinct route, the Mahi River plays a vital role in irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric projects in western India.

Mahi River: The Only River in India That Crosses the Tropic of Cancer Twice

Understanding the Tropic of Cancer

The Tropic of Cancer is an imaginary line located at 23.5° North latitude. It marks the northernmost point on Earth where the Sun can be directly overhead. This line passes through several Indian states—Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram. While many rivers cross this line once, the Mahi River is the only one that crosses it twice, making it a rare natural phenomenon.

The Journey of the Mahi River

Origin: The river begins in the Vindhya Hills of Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh.
First Crossing: It flows northward and crosses the Tropic of Cancer for the first time.
U-shaped Bend: It then bends southward, forming a U-shape, and enters Rajasthan through the Vagad region.
Second Crossing: After flowing into Gujarat, it crosses the Tropic of Cancer again.
Mouth: Finally, it empties into the Arabian Sea through the Gulf of Khambhat after covering about 583 km.

This twisting path gives it its unique distinction in Indian geography.

Importance of the Mahi River

The Mahi River is extremely important for the states it flows through.

It provides water for agriculture and drinking.
The Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam in Rajasthan generates electricity and supports irrigation.
The river’s monsoon-fed waters help maintain fertile soil in surrounding regions.
It supports local biodiversity and creates an estuary near its mouth, home to many fish species.
Its tributaries—Som, Anas, and Panam Rivers—further enrich the ecosystem.
It also gives its name to the Mahisagar district in Gujarat.

Exam-Oriented Notes

River Name: Mahi River (also called Mahisagar)
Origin: Vindhya Hills, Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh
Flows Through: Madhya Pradesh → Rajasthan → Gujarat
Length: Around 583 km
Mouth: Arabian Sea (Gulf of Khambhat)
Tributaries: Som, Anas, Panam
Important Dam: Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam (Rajasthan)
Unique Fact: Only river in India that crosses the Tropic of Cancer twice
Direction of Flow: Westward (like Narmada and Tapti)

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Question & Answer

Q1. Which is the only river in India that crosses the Tropic of Cancer twice?
(a) Narmada River
(b) Tapi River
(c) Mahi River
(d) Godavari River
Answer: Mahi River

Q2. Where does the Mahi River originate?
(a) Aravalli Hills
(b) Vindhya Hills
(c) Satpura Range
(d) Western Ghats
Answer: Vindhya Hills

Q3. In which district of Madhya Pradesh does the Mahi River originate?
(a) Indore
(b) Dhar
(c) Jhabua
(d) Ujjain
Answer: Dhar

Q4. Through which states does the Mahi River flow?
(a) Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat
(b) Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan
(c) Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Gujarat
(d) Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra
Answer: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat

Q5. What is the name of the major dam built on the Mahi River?
(a) Sardar Sarovar Dam
(b) Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam
(c) Ukai Dam
(d) Bargi Dam
Answer: Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam

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