The 2,525 km (1,569 mi) river rises in the western Himalayas in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It flows south and east through the Gangetic plain of North India, receiving the right-bank tributary, the Yamuna, which also rises in the western Indian Himalayas, and several left-bank tributaries from Nepal that account for the bulk of its flow.[9][10] In West Bengal state, India, a feeder canal taking off from its right bank diverts 50% of its flow southwards, artificially connecting it to the Hooghly River. The Ganges continues into Bangladesh, its name changing to the Padma. It is then joined by the Jamuna, the lower stream of the Brahmaputra, and eventually the Meghna, forming the major estuary of the Ganges Delta, and emptying into the Bay of Bengal. The Ganges–Brahmaputra–Meghna system is the second-largest river on earth by discharge.
The Ganga River, also known as the Ganges, is one of the most significant and sacred rivers in the Indian subcontinent. Here is some information about the Ganga River:
1. **Geography:**
- The Ganga originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the state of Uttarakhand, India, and flows through northern India and Bangladesh.
- It is approximately 2,525 kilometers (1,569 miles) long, making it one of the longest rivers in the world.
2. **Significance:**
- The Ganga is considered sacred in Hinduism, and its waters are believed to have purifying properties. It plays a central role in Hindu rituals and ceremonies.
- Many major cities, including Varanasi, Allahabad, and Kolkata, are situated along the banks of the Ganga.
3. **Biodiversity:**
- The river basin is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It supports various species of freshwater dolphins, fish, and migratory birds.
- The Ganga River basin is an essential source of livelihood for millions of people who depend on it for agriculture and fishing.
4. **Environmental Concerns:**
- Despite its cultural and ecological significance, the Ganga faces numerous environmental challenges. Pollution from industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and untreated sewage has led to water quality issues.
- Efforts, such as the Ganga Action Plan and Namami Gange initiative, have been initiated to address pollution and promote the conservation of the river.
5. **Economic Importance:**
- The Ganga River basin is crucial for agriculture, providing fertile plains that support the cultivation of crops such as rice, wheat, and sugarcane.
- It also serves as a major transportation route, facilitating trade and commerce along its course.
6. **Cultural and Religious Practices:**
- The Ganga is associated with several myths and legends in Hinduism. It is believed to have descended from the heavens to Earth through Lord Shiva's hair.
- Pilgrims from across India and beyond visit the Ganga to bathe in its holy waters, seeking spiritual purification.
7. **Conservation Efforts:**
- Various initiatives and projects are ongoing to preserve and rejuvenate the Ganga. These include efforts to reduce pollution, improve wastewater treatment, and promote sustainable water management practices.
The Ganga River holds immense cultural, religious, and environmental significance, making it a vital aspect of India's identity and heritage.
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Answer:
The 2,525 km (1,569 mi) river rises in the western Himalayas in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It flows south and east through the Gangetic plain of North India, receiving the right-bank tributary, the Yamuna, which also rises in the western Indian Himalayas, and several left-bank tributaries from Nepal that account for the bulk of its flow.[9][10] In West Bengal state, India, a feeder canal taking off from its right bank diverts 50% of its flow southwards, artificially connecting it to the Hooghly River. The Ganges continues into Bangladesh, its name changing to the Padma. It is then joined by the Jamuna, the lower stream of the Brahmaputra, and eventually the Meghna, forming the major estuary of the Ganges Delta, and emptying into the Bay of Bengal. The Ganges–Brahmaputra–Meghna system is the second-largest river on earth by discharge.
Answer:
The Ganga River, also known as the Ganges, is one of the most significant and sacred rivers in the Indian subcontinent. Here is some information about the Ganga River:
1. **Geography:**
- The Ganga originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the state of Uttarakhand, India, and flows through northern India and Bangladesh.
- It is approximately 2,525 kilometers (1,569 miles) long, making it one of the longest rivers in the world.
2. **Significance:**
- The Ganga is considered sacred in Hinduism, and its waters are believed to have purifying properties. It plays a central role in Hindu rituals and ceremonies.
- Many major cities, including Varanasi, Allahabad, and Kolkata, are situated along the banks of the Ganga.
3. **Biodiversity:**
- The river basin is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It supports various species of freshwater dolphins, fish, and migratory birds.
- The Ganga River basin is an essential source of livelihood for millions of people who depend on it for agriculture and fishing.
4. **Environmental Concerns:**
- Despite its cultural and ecological significance, the Ganga faces numerous environmental challenges. Pollution from industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and untreated sewage has led to water quality issues.
- Efforts, such as the Ganga Action Plan and Namami Gange initiative, have been initiated to address pollution and promote the conservation of the river.
5. **Economic Importance:**
- The Ganga River basin is crucial for agriculture, providing fertile plains that support the cultivation of crops such as rice, wheat, and sugarcane.
- It also serves as a major transportation route, facilitating trade and commerce along its course.
6. **Cultural and Religious Practices:**
- The Ganga is associated with several myths and legends in Hinduism. It is believed to have descended from the heavens to Earth through Lord Shiva's hair.
- Pilgrims from across India and beyond visit the Ganga to bathe in its holy waters, seeking spiritual purification.
7. **Conservation Efforts:**
- Various initiatives and projects are ongoing to preserve and rejuvenate the Ganga. These include efforts to reduce pollution, improve wastewater treatment, and promote sustainable water management practices.
The Ganga River holds immense cultural, religious, and environmental significance, making it a vital aspect of India's identity and heritage.