North Bihar Plains

region, India

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July 18, 2026

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The North Bihar Plains are a region in eastern India, forming part of the larger Middle Ganges Plain. This flat, alluvial area is situated north of the Ganges River and is characterized by numerous rivers flowing from the Himalayas, such as the Ghaghara, Gandak, Baghmati, and Kosi. These rivers frequently change course and are prone to causing destructive floods, with the Kosi River historically known as the "Sorrow of Bihar". The region experiences seismic activity due to its location within the Himalayan earthquake zone.1

The soil is primarily new alluvium, with variations in texture across the plain. Agriculture is a dominant economic activity, with rice being the main crop, supplemented by wheat, corn, barley, and pulses. The area also faces challenges with natural hazards like flooding and earthquakes.1

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Bihar
Relief, drainage, and soils
…(Ganga) River into two regions—the North Bihar Plains and the South Bihar Plains, which together form part of the middle Gangetic Plain. Except for the foothills of the Himalayas in the extreme northwest, the North Bihar Plain is a flat alluvial region, less than 250 feet (75 metres) above sea…
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…(Ganga) River into two regions—the North Bihar Plains and the South Bihar Plains, which together form part of the middle Gangetic Plain. Except for the foothills of the Himalayas in the extreme northwest, the North Bihar Plain is a flat alluvial region, less than 250 feet (75 metres) above sea…
Read More