Balason River

Balasun is one of the main rivers of North Bengal and Darjeeling Districts.

Geography

Balasun rises from the Jorebunglow below Tiger Hill, Sukhia and flows towards the south east into the plains of North Bengal, where it joins the Mahananda River. The Balsun passes between the valley of Pokhriabong, Dhotreia T. E, Cedars T.E, Nagari Fram T. E, Moonda Kotee T. E, Balasun T. E., Ambootia T. E.
Above the river Balasun ginger, cardamom, oranges and other regional crops are cultivated.

History

The name Balasun is coined from Lepcha's word. The river attracts local visitors to fish, camping and the visiting point called Intake, near Pulbazar in Malat. From this Intake point of Balasun Water Supply project, water is pumped to Darjeeling Town.

Economy

The river's gravels and sands are of the best quality for construction. It has great significance for fertility of the soil in the region in Bungkulung, Dudhia, Panighatta, Nakxal etc.