Why was the Tungabhadra river central to the location of Vijayanagara?

The river provided a natural northern boundary and a perennial water source in a dry landscape, enabling the empire to sustain a massive population and a fortified capital.

Devaraya I: Tungabhadra Dam and Vijayanagara Canal (2023 PYQ)

ID: MED_MUG_2023_01 Ref: Satish Chandra, History of Medieval India

Who among the following rulers of Vijayanagara Empire constructed a large dam across Tungabhadra River and a canal-cum-aqueduct several kilometres long from the river to the capital city?

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Correct Option: A

Devaraya I of the Vijayanagara Empire constructed a large dam across the Tungabhadra River and a 24 km long aqueduct around 1410. This project was vital for supplying water to the capital city and supporting agricultural growth in the region.