3.2.9. The Brahmaputra Plain

Stretching over an area of around 56,000sqkm, it is the eastern most part of plains. It is about 720 km long, 80 km wide and altitude varies from 30 m to 130 m. The region is surrounded by high mountains except in western side. Assam valley is characterized by a steep slope along northern margin. Majuli with area of around 930sqkm is the largest river island of India and the second largest of world. But this island is undergoing severe erosion and needs special protection. The tributaries descending from Himalayas form a series of alluvial fans. The fertile valley is conducive to grow rice and jute. It is also famous for its tea and two national parks – Kaziranga and Manas.