Palar River: Unveiling India's 'River of Milk' and Its Hidden Secrets

• The Palar River, known as the 'River of Milk', gets its name from the Tamil words 'Paal' (milk) and 'Aaru' (river) due to its milky appearance.
• Originating in Karnataka's Nandi Hills, it flows 348 km through Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu before merging into the Bay of Bengal.
• Its milky appearance is attributed to white sandy beds from quartz and feldspar, its subterranean flow in many sections, and mineral-rich water.
• The river's sandy surface acts as a sponge, absorbing rainwater and recharging groundwater, crucial for arid regions.
• Serving as a lifeline for agriculture and drinking water in many arid districts of Tamil Nadu, it silently supports local communities.