Natural Resource Potentials of Deccan Trap
1. Geological Overview:
- Formed ~66 million years ago due to volcanic activity (Cretaceous–Paleogene boundary).
- Covers ~500,000 sq. km across Maharashtra, MP, Gujarat, Telangana, Karnataka.
- Composed mainly of basalt (igneous rock).
2. Soil Resources:
- Rich Black cotton soil (Regur) derived from basalt.
- High moisture retention; ideal for cotton, oilseeds, pulses, millets.
3. Mineral Resources:
- Manganese, iron ore, bauxite, copper (Nagpur, Chandrapur belt).
- Minor diamond reserves (Panna, MP).
- Limestone and dolomite for cement and steel industries.
4. Groundwater Potential:
- Basalt layers with vesicular structure provide moderate aquifers.
- Groundwater extraction viable via borewells and dug wells.
5. Biodiversity and Forests:
- Dry deciduous forests: valuable for teak, bamboo, tendu leaves.
- Supports fauna like leopard, nilgai, sloth bear (e.g., Satpura, Melghat).
6. Agriculture and Horticulture:
- Suitable for dryland farming.
- Mango, grapes, oranges grown in weathered trap zones.
7. Industrial Use of Basalt:
- Basalt used in road metal, railway ballast, building stone.
8. Tourism & Cultural Value:
- Features scenic ghats, waterfalls, caves (Ajanta, Ellora).
- Geotourism potential due to unique volcanic landforms.
Conclusion: Deccan Trap is a multi-resource region, rich in soil fertility, minerals, forests, groundwater, and geotourism with critical implications for agriculture, industry, and livelihoods in peninsular India.
