Aghanashini River:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) advised the Centre that Aghanashini–Vedavathi river linking project must comply with the norms set under World Heritage Conservation frameworks.
- It originates from Gadihalli (Sirsi) in the Western Ghats of Karnataka.
- Aghanashini meaning the “Remover of Sins” is one of the very few free-flowing rivers of the world.
- It joins Arabian Sea at Tadri, Karnataka.
- Tributaries: Donihalla, Chandika hole, Masti mane halla, Benne hole etc
- The variations in the terrain has led to formation of various water falls such as the Burude falls, Dabbe falls, Waate halla, Benne holé falls, Unchalli falls.
- Where the Aghanashini River meets the Arabian Sea, this estuarine system is rich in mangroves and supports a variety of fish and bird species.
- Aghanashini Estuary has been designated as the Ramsar Site.
