Why is it in the news?
UNESCO raised concerns regarding the river linking project.
The project must comply with conservation norms.
Category: Geography
Important Points:
● Originates in Western Ghats in Karnataka
● Origin point is Gadihalli near Sirsi
● Flows about 117 km before joining Arabian Sea
● Catchment area is about 1449 sq km
● One of the few free-flowing rivers in India
● Has tributaries like Donihalla and Benne hole
● Forms estuary rich in mangroves
● Aghanashini estuary is a Ramsar site
● Supports rich biodiversity of fish and birds