Which is the Longest River in India?
India is known for its diverse geography, with mountains, deserts, plateaus, and river basins. The country has several rivers, and each of them has its own significance. Among them, the longest river is the Ganges, which is also known as the Ganga. It is one of the most sacred rivers in India and is considered as the lifeline of the northern part of the country. This article will explore the Ganges in detail and provide an overview of its significance to the people of India.
Table of Contents
Introduction
- Geographical location
- The source of the Ganges
- The course of the Ganges
- Importance of the Ganges
- Significance of the Ganges in Hinduism
- Water pollution in the Ganges
- Efforts to clean the Ganges
- Wildlife in the Ganges
- Economic significance of the Ganges
- Tourism along the Ganges
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Introduction
India is a land of rivers, with several major river systems that provide water for agriculture, transportation, and other purposes. The Ganges is the longest and most important river in India, and it is revered by millions of people as a sacred river. In this article, we will explore the geography of the Ganges, its significance to the people of India, and the challenges that it faces.
Geographical location
The Ganges is located in northern India and flows through several states, including Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal. It is approximately 2,525 km long and drains an area of 1,080,000 square kilometers. The river starts at the Gangotri glacier in the Indian Himalayas and empties into the Bay of Bengal.
The source of the Ganges
The Gangotri glacier, located in the Indian Himalayas, is the source of the Ganges. The glacier is approximately 19 km long and 7 km wide and is situated at an altitude of 4,100 meters. It is said that the glacier is melting at a rapid pace due to global warming, which could have a significant impact on the flow of the river in the future.
The course of the Ganges
The Ganges flows through several states in northern India, including Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal. Along its course, it passes through several major cities, including Haridwar, Kanpur, Allahabad, Varanasi, and Kolkata. The river is known for its numerous tributaries, including the Yamuna, Ghaghara, Gandak, and Kosi rivers.
Importance of the Ganges
The Ganges is an important river for the people of India, both culturally and economically. The river provides water for irrigation, transportation, and industry, and it is also a major source of fish and other aquatic resources. The river is considered sacred by Hindus, who believe that bathing in the Ganges can purify one's sins and bring salvation.
Significance of the Ganges in Hinduism
The Ganges is considered one of the most sacred rivers in Hinduism and is worshipped as a goddess, known as Ganga Mata. According to Hindu mythology, the river was created by Lord Shiva to cleanse the sins of humanity. Many Hindus believe that bathing in the Ganges during the Kumbh Mela, a major religious festival, can wash away their sins and bring them closer to god.
Water pollution in the Ganges
Despite its religious significance, the Ganges is one of the most polluted rivers in the world. Industrial waste, sewage, and agricultural runoff have contaminated the river, making it unsafe for drinking, bathing, or fishing. The water pollution in the Ganges has become a serious concern for the people of India. It is estimated that around 80% of the pollution in the river comes from untreated domestic sewage. Industrial effluents, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides are other major contributors to the pollution in the river.
Efforts to clean the Ganges
To address the issue of water pollution in the Ganges, the Indian government launched the 'Namami Gange' program in 2014. The program aims to clean and rejuvenate the river by implementing various measures, such as constructing sewage treatment plants, controlling industrial pollution, and promoting eco-friendly farming practices. The government has also launched several campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of keeping the river clean.
Wildlife in the Ganges
The Ganges is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. Some of the common species found in the river include the Ganges river dolphin, the mugger crocodile, the Indian flapshell turtle, and the Ganges shark. The river is also a major breeding ground for several species of fish, including the hilsa, rohu, and katla.
Economic significance of the Ganges
The Ganges is an important river for the economy of India, as it supports various industries, such as agriculture, fisheries, and transport. The river provides water for irrigation, which is crucial for the agricultural sector. It is also an important transportation route, with several ports and harbors located along its course.
Tourism along the Ganges
The Ganges is a popular destination for tourists, who come to witness its natural beauty and religious significance. Several cities along the river, such as Varanasi and Haridwar, are major pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The river is also known for its ghats, which are the steps leading down to the river, and are used for religious rituals and bathing.
Conclusion
The Ganges is the longest and most important river in India, with a significant cultural, economic, and ecological value. Despite its religious significance, the river is facing severe pollution due to industrial waste, sewage, and other pollutants. The Indian government has launched several initiatives to clean and rejuvenate the river, and it is hoped that these efforts will lead to a cleaner and healthier Ganges.
FAQs
What is the length of the Ganges River?
The Ganges River is approximately 2,525 km long.
Why is the Ganges considered sacred by Hindus?
The Ganges is considered sacred by Hindus because it is believed to purify one's sins and bring salvation.
What is the 'Namami Gange' program?
The 'Namami Gange' program is an initiative launched by the Indian government to clean and rejuvenate the Ganges River.
What are some of the common species found in the Ganges River?
Some of the common species found in the Ganges River include the Ganges river dolphin, the mugger crocodile, and the Indian flapshell turtle.
What is the economic significance of the Ganges River?
The Ganges River is important for the economy of India, as it supports various industries, such as agriculture, fisheries, and transport.
Author : Shyamal
