NCERT Solutions for Class 5 EVS Our Wondrous World Chapter 2 Journey of a River

Page 22

1. Name the states that Godavari flows through.
See AnswerMaharashtra, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.

2. Name a dam and a wildlife sanctuary along the length of Godavari.
See AnswerDam: Polavaram Dam or Sriram Sagar Project (SRSP)
Wildlife Sanctuary: Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary or Kawal Tiger Reserve

3. Which other small rivers join Godavari in its journey?
See AnswerThe small rivers that join Godavari are its tributaries. Some of these include:
• Indravati
• Manjira
• Pranahita
• Sabari
• Purna
These tributaries help make the Godavari wider and stronger as it flows towards the Bay of Bengal.

Page 25

1. List three ways in which people are dependent on the river Godavari.
See Answer• People depend on the river Godavari for drinking water, cooking and washing.
• It provides water for growing food in fields.
• It supports livelihoods by helping in factories and other water-dependent activities.

2. In which occupations are people engaged near the river Godavari?
See Answer• Farming (agriculture) using water for irrigation.
• Fishing in the river.
• Factory work that uses water in manufacturing.
• Ecotourism like guiding tourists, boat riding, etc.

3. Which crops do you see growing near the Godavari?
See AnswerCrops like rice (paddy), sugarcane, cotton and turmeric are commonly seen growing near the Godavari river because of the availability of water for irrigation.

4. Which crops grow in your region? Where does the water for irrigation come from?
See AnswerIn my region, crops like wheat, mustard and millets grow. The water for irrigation comes from canals, tube wells and sometimes rainwater stored in ponds or tanks.

Page 27

Write

What problems can arise after a dam is built? How can they be solved?
See AnswerProblems:
• Flooding of land – Dams can submerge forests, villages and farmland.
• Displacement of people and animals – Many families and animals are forced to leave their homes.
• Blocking the natural flow of rivers – It affects fish migration, river health and ecosystems.
Solutions:
• Proper planning and rehabilitation – People affected by dams should be given new homes, jobs and support.
• Environmental impact study – Dams should be built only after checking how it will affect nature and wildlife.
• Build smaller, eco-friendly dams – Use sustainable methods like rainwater harvesting and small check dams where possible.

Page 28

Write

1. Where do the plastic wrappers and bags that we litter end up?
See AnswerPlastic wrappers and bags that we litter often end up in drains, rivers, ponds and other water bodies. They block the flow of water and pollute it. Sometimes, animals like cows, fish and turtles swallow them by mistake, which can harm or even kill them.

2. What kinds of soaps, shampoos or floor cleaners (natural or readymade) are used in your home? Where does the unclean water mixed with these cleaners go?
See AnswerIn most homes, readymade soaps, shampoos and floor cleaners are used. These include products like hand wash, dishwashing liquid, toilet cleaner and detergent. The unclean water mixed with these cleaners usually goes into drains and sewage lines, which often carry the water to rivers or other nearby water bodies, causing water pollution.

Page 28

Discuss

Ask your parents or elders, about the condition of water bodies near your home when they were your age. What is the status of those water bodies today?
See AnswerWhen I asked my parents about the condition of water bodies near our home during their childhood, they told me that the rivers, ponds and lakes were clean and full of water. People used to bathe, wash clothes and even drink water directly from them. Many birds, fish and animals lived nearby.
But today, the condition has changed. Most of those water bodies are polluted or dried up. Some ponds have been filled with garbage, and the rivers are choked with plastic and dirty water from homes and factories. The number of birds and fish has also reduced. They said that if we don’t take care of our water sources now, future generations may not have clean water at all.

Page 29

Activity 2

Make a list of things that we throw into the waste bin at home or school. If these things were thrown into a river or a pond, how would each of these items harm the animals, plants and people who live nearby and use this water?
See AnswerThings thrown in waste bin/How they can harm water bodies and life around
Plastic wrappers – Do not dissolve, choke animals like turtles and fish
Food waste – Makes the water dirty and attracts germs and mosquitoes
Paper – May block the flow of water and pollute it over time
Metal or foil items – Can poison water and harm animals if swallowed
Shampoo/soap sachets – Release chemicals that pollute the water and affect aquatic life
Broken toys or pens – Non-biodegradable, remain in water for years and harm animals
Throwing these things in rivers or ponds makes the water unsafe for animals, birds, plants and even people who depend on it. We must throw waste only in dustbins and recycle wherever possible.

Activity 3

Take two clear glasses of water. Add a spoonful of sugar in one and a spoonful of cooking oil in the other. Stir both well and observe.
What do you observe? Which one appears clear?
See AnswerObservation:
► When we stir sugar in one glass of water, it dissolves completely, and the water looks clear.
► When we stir cooking oil in the other glass, it does not dissolve and floats on top, making the water look cloudy or oily.
Which one appears clear?
We see that the glass with sugar appears clear.
Conclusion: This experiment shows that some things dissolve in water (like sugar) and some do not (like oil).
Examples of things that dissolve in water:
• Salt
• Sugar
• Lemon juice
• Baking soda
Examples of things that do not dissolve in water:
• Oil
• Sand
• Plastic pieces
• Chalk powder

Page 30

Activity 4

Look at the two images given below. Which river looks healthy and why? How do so many plants grow in water?
What do you think happens when too many plants grow in a river?
See AnswerThe river with clean water looks healthy because it is clear and supports a balanced life of fish, plants and animals. There is no pollution or excess plant growth.
When fertilisers and chemicals from farms get washed into the river, they make the water rich in nutrients. This causes plants and algae to grow very fast.
When too many plants grow, they form a green blanket on the surface. This blocks sunlight, reduces oxygen in the water and chokes aquatic life like fish. It also makes the water unsafe to drink or use.

Page 31

Write

Can you list three things you can do to protect the water bodies near you?
1. ________________________________________________
2. ________________________________________________
3. ________________________________________________
See Answer1. Throw waste only in dustbins and never in rivers, ponds or lakes.
2. Use eco-friendly soaps, shampoos and cleaners that do not pollute water.
3. Spread awareness among others to keep water bodies clean and join clean-up drives.

Page 32

Activity 5

Match the Columns
Note: One problem could affect more than one thing.

Answer:

Page 33

Activity 6

See the Image Given:
See AnswerBefore the Flood
• Stay informed through the local news.
• Prepare an emergency kit that includes first aid, flashlight, batteries, etc.
• Know the process to evacuate and plan safe alternative routes.
• Leave your home before flooding starts if advised.
• In flood-prone areas, keep emergency items like a flashlight, ladder and rope ready.
During the Flood
• Disconnect electricity and gas to prevent accidents.
• Do not walk or drive through flood water.
• Move to higher ground immediately.
• Follow evacuation orders given by authorities.
• Free cattle and lead animals to a safer place.
After the Flood
• Avoid contact with floodwater and contaminated food.
• Do not return home until it is declared safe.
• Inform your family that you are safe.
• When you return home, clean and disinfect all surfaces, food items and utensils.

Activity 7

Read the flood safety tips given in Activity 6 and organise a role-play where you are the Sarpanch or Municipal Corporator of your village or city.
Discuss what actions you will take to —
• prevent flooding
• prevent damage caused by flooding
• keep elderly people and people with disability safe
• keep animals safe
See AnswerTo prevent flooding:
► Ensure proper drainage systems are built and cleaned regularly.
► Ban cutting of trees and promote tree plantation to slow down rainwater.
► Build rainwater harvesting systems to reduce water run-off.
To prevent damage caused by flooding:
► Build strong embankments and flood barriers in flood-prone areas.
► Create a disaster warning system using local radios and mobile alerts.
► Identify and repair weak or broken bridges and roads in advance.
To keep elderly people and people with disability safe:
► Arrange special rescue and medical teams for old and disabled people.
► Set up shelters with ramps, wheelchairs, medicines, and basic care items.
► Create a list of such residents and keep contact with their families.
To keep animals safe:
► Arrange temporary shelters for animals in higher places.
► Free cattle early and guide them to safer areas.
► Store dry fodder and water for animals in case of emergency.

Page 35

1. What would you do if you had no water in your home for an entire day?
See AnswerIf I had no water at home for an entire day, I would try to use stored water wisely for drinking and cooking. I would avoid wasting water and postpone activities like washing clothes or bathing. I might also ask neighbours for help or go to a nearby public tap or handpump.

2. What if there was no water for a week? How would you bath, drink, cook or clean? Where would you go to find water?
See AnswerIf there was no water for a week, I would store water from nearby water tankers, wells or community taps. I would collect rainwater if possible and use it carefully. For drinking, I would boil or filter water to make it safe. Bathing and cleaning would be limited to save water and I might visit a relative’s or friend’s place where water is available.

Page 37

Let us reflect

1. Find out which river(s) flow through your state.
(a) What are they used for?
See AnswerRivers like Godavari and Krishna are used for drinking water, irrigation, fishing, transportation and electricity (hydropower).

(b) Are there any dams on them?
See AnswerYes, there are dams like Jayakwadi Dam on the Godavari and Koyna Dam on the Krishna River.

2. Ask your grandparents or parents to share any story or festival related to rivers in your region and present it in the class.
See AnswerMy grandmother told me about Godavari Pushkaram, a festival celebrated every 12 years in South India. People take a holy dip in the river to purify themselves and perform rituals to honor ancestors.

3. Ask an elder in your family:
(a) What was the condition of rivers when you were a child?
See AnswerThe rivers were clean and full of water. People used them for bathing, washing and even drinking.

(b) What has changed since then?
See AnswerNow rivers are polluted with waste and plastic and the water levels are often low due to overuse and poor rainfall.

4. Why do you think people built houses and cities near rivers in the past? Are rivers still important today in the same way?
See AnswerPeople built houses near rivers because they provided water, food, transport and fertile land.
Yes, rivers are still important today for all these reasons, but they are also more polluted and overused, so we must take care of them.

5. If you could create one new rule to protect rivers in your city or village, what would it be?
See AnswerI would make a rule that no one can throw garbage, plastic or sewage into rivers and heavy fines should be charged for breaking the rule.

6. Think about a time when you wasted water. What could you have done differently?
See AnswerI once left the tap running while brushing my teeth. I could have turned it off and saved water.

7. Can you design a simple water filter using everyday materials? What would you include and why?
See AnswerYes! I would use:
• A plastic bottle (cut from the bottom),
• Layers of pebbles, sand, charcoal and cotton.
• This helps to remove dirt and bad smell from dirty water.
• It’s a simple way to make water cleaner when we don’t have access to a purifier.

8. Imagine you are planning a new city near a river. What steps would you take to:
(a) Keep the river clean
See AnswerBuild proper drainage and waste treatment plants. No dumping of garbage or sewage into the river.

(b) Prevent floods during heavy rains
See AnswerBuild strong embankments, plant trees and ensure good rainwater drainage systems.

(c) Ensure there is always enough water for everyone, even during summers
See AnswerPromote rainwater harvesting, water recycling and careful water use in homes and industries.

Practice Questions for Exam Preparation in Class 5 EVS Our Wondrous World Chapter 2 Journey of a River

1. Where does the river Godavari begin?
See AnswerIt begins at Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra.

2. What is the total length of the Godavari River?
See Answer1,465 kilometres.

3. Into which sea does the Godavari flow?
See AnswerThe Bay of Bengal.

4. What are small rivers that join a bigger river called?
See AnswerTributaries.

5. What is the other name of the Godavari River?
See AnswerDakshina Ganga.

6. What type of river is the Godavari—seasonal or perennial?
See AnswerPerennial.

7. Name one dam built on the Godavari River.
See AnswerPolavaram Dam.

8. Name one wildlife sanctuary along the Godavari.
See AnswerCoringa Wildlife Sanctuary.

9. What forms when a river spreads into small streams near the sea?
See AnswerA delta.

10 What is a Water ATM?
See AnswerA machine that gives clean drinking water when a coin or card is inserted.

11. What does the National Water Mission aim to do?
See AnswerHelp people use water wisely and manage it better.

12. Why should we turn off the tap while brushing teeth?
See AnswerTo save water and avoid wastage.

13. What can we do with leftover water from washing vegetables?
See AnswerReuse it to water plants.

14. What causes green blankets on rivers?
See AnswerFertilisers washed from fields.

15. What is one small action that can save rivers?
See AnswerNot throwing plastic or waste into water bodies.

1. What is the importance of the Godavari River in southern India?
See AnswerThe Godavari River is called the Dakshina Ganga because of its sacred value in southern India. It provides drinking water, supports agriculture and offers livelihoods through fishing, ecotourism and irrigation. It also plays a major role in cultural and religious festivals.

2. What are tributaries and how do they affect the Godavari River?
See AnswerTributaries are smaller rivers that join a larger one. Rivers like Indravati and Manjira are tributaries of the Godavari. They increase the water volume, make the river wider and stronger and help the Godavari support life along its banks.

3. What are Water ATMs and how do they help in water conservation?
See AnswerWater ATMs are machines that provide clean drinking water when a person inserts a coin or card. These are especially useful in water-scarce areas and promote responsible water usage by reducing wastage and making people value each drop.

4. What does the National Water Mission aim to achieve in India?
See AnswerThe National Water Mission works to promote water conservation, improve water-use efficiency and ensure sustainable water management across India. It raises awareness about water-saving habits and supports projects like water recycling, rainwater harvesting and protection of rivers and lakes.

5. How does building a dam affect rivers, people and wildlife?
See AnswerBuilding a dam stores water and produces electricity, but it can flood forests, displace people and harm wildlife. While it benefits agriculture and cities, it also causes the loss of homes, trees and biodiversity if not planned properly.

6. What role do trees play in preventing floods?
See AnswerTrees slow down rainwater and help the soil absorb more water. This reduces surface runoff and prevents flooding. Areas with more trees face less waterlogging and soil erosion, making them important for protecting rivers and nearby communities.

7. How does pollution affect rivers and aquatic life?
See AnswerPollution from plastic, sewage and chemicals makes rivers dirty and unsafe for drinking. It harms fish, turtles and birds that live in and around the water. Polluted rivers can also spread diseases and cause the death of aquatic plants.

8. What is a delta and how is it formed?
See AnswerA delta forms when a river splits into smaller streams before meeting the sea. This happens due to the deposition of mud and sand. Deltas like the one formed by the Godavari are fertile and support farming and fishing communities.

9. Why is it important to reuse water at home?
See AnswerReusing water, like using leftover vegetable-washing water to water plants, helps save fresh water for drinking and cooking. It reduces overall consumption, teaches sustainable habits and supports the idea that every drop counts in protecting our environment.

10. What are some steps we can take to keep rivers clean?
See AnswerWe should never throw plastic or waste into rivers, use eco-friendly soaps, fix leaky taps and join clean-up drives. We must also educate others about saving water. These small efforts can make a big difference in river conservation.

1. What are the different ways in which the river Godavari supports human life?
See Answer• Drinking Water: It provides clean water to towns and villages along its path.
• Agriculture: Farmers use its water to grow crops like rice, sugarcane and turmeric.
• Livelihoods: Many people earn a living through fishing, farming and ecotourism.
• Religious Importance: It is considered sacred, especially during festivals like Godavari Pushkaram.
• Water Supply: The river’s water is carried through canals and pipes to houses and schools.
• Electricity Generation: Dams on the river help in producing hydroelectric power.

2. What problems occur when a dam is built, and how can they be solved?
See AnswerProblems:
• Displacement: People living near the river lose their homes and land.
• Loss of Forests: Trees and animals are affected as land is flooded.
• River Flow Changes: The natural flow of the river is blocked, affecting ecosystems.
Solutions:
• Rehabilitation: Provide proper homes and jobs to people who are relocated.
• Environmental Checks: Study the impact on nature before building a dam.
• Build Smaller Dams: Encourage small check dams that cause less harm.

3. What can students do in daily life to save water and protect rivers?
See Answer• Turn off taps while brushing or washing hands.
• Fix leaking taps with the help of adults.
• Reuse water left after washing fruits or rice for watering plants.
• Avoid throwing waste or plastic in drains or water bodies.
• Spread awareness by talking to family and friends about saving water.
• Use only the amount of water needed for any task.

4. How do fertilizers and waste affect rivers and aquatic life?
See Answer• Fertilizers: They make unwanted plants and algae grow rapidly on the river’s surface.
• Green Blanket Effect: These plants form a thick cover that blocks sunlight.
• Lack of Oxygen: Fish and other animals find it hard to breathe and may die.
• Pollution: Soap, chemicals and plastic pollute the river water, making it unsafe to use.
• Loss of Biodiversity: Turtles, fish and birds lose their homes and may disappear over time.

5. What safety steps should be taken before, during and after a flood?
See AnswerBefore a Flood:
• Stay informed through news and alerts.
• Prepare an emergency kit with first aid, torch, and rope.
• Know safe evacuation routes.
During a Flood:
• Move to higher ground.
• Do not walk or drive in floodwater.
• Turn off electricity and gas.
After a Flood:
• Avoid using floodwater for drinking or bathing.
• Clean and disinfect the house and utensils.
• Contact family and confirm safety.

Notes to revise the complete chapter 2 before exams.

Using Water Wisely: A Shared Responsibility
Water is precious, and we all must learn to use it wisely. The National Water Mission is working to help people across India manage water properly and use it carefully. In some places, people are using water ATMs, which give clean water when you insert a card or coin. These machines help avoid wastage and teach people to value every drop. It’s a smart way to save water and ensure everyone gets their fair share. We can also do simple things daily like turning off the tap while brushing, fixing leaking taps, and using leftover water from washing fruits or vegetables to water plants. Even reminding family and friends to save water can make a big difference. These small habits can protect rivers, ponds and lakes around us and ensure that clean drinking water is available for future generations. Truly, every drop counts.

Learning from the Past: Rivers Then and Now
Our elders often tell us how rivers were cleaner and full of water when they were young. Asking grandparents or parents to share stories about rivers or festivals like Godavari Pushkaram helps us understand the value of rivers in our culture. People built houses and cities near rivers because they offered water for farming, drinking, washing, and transport. Over the years, due to careless habits, these rivers have become polluted, with plastic and sewage flowing into them. When asked about the condition of rivers during their childhood, many elders say they were used for swimming and fishing and had clear water. Now, many rivers are drying or becoming unsafe. It’s important to reflect on what has changed since then and take action. Rivers are still important today — maybe even more — and we must treat them with the same respect as in the past.

Protecting Our Rivers: Rules, Awareness and Innovation
If we could make one new rule to protect rivers, it should be to ban dumping garbage and untreated waste into them. Strict fines and penalties would help stop this damaging habit. Thinking back to a time when we wasted water – like letting the tap run – we realise we must act differently now. Schools and communities can encourage kids to design simple water filters using everyday materials like sand, gravel, charcoal and cotton. This teaches how to purify water affordably. Saving rivers also means keeping them clean, building better drainage and preventing floods during heavy rains. Towns should build rainwater harvesting systems and plant trees to stop soil erosion. Also, during summers, we must ensure there is enough water for everyone through careful planning. These steps are necessary to protect our rivers and make our homes and cities safe, clean and water-secure.

Imagining a City Near a River: Smart Steps for a Better Future
If I were planning a new city near a river, I would take many smart steps. First, I would make sure there are strict laws to keep the river clean by stopping plastic, sewage and chemicals from entering it. Second, to prevent floods during heavy rains, we would plant trees, build flood barriers and maintain proper drainage. We would also build homes away from flood zones and educate citizens on flood safety. To ensure there is always enough water for everyone, I would promote water-saving habits like reusing water, fixing leaks and turning off taps while brushing. Water ATMs would be placed across the city to provide clean water without waste. We would follow the example of the National Water Mission and teach people that even small actions make a big difference. A city built with water respect can thrive in every season.