The Ganga River, also known as the Ganges, is one of the most important and sacred rivers in India. Here's a detailed overview:
Source
The Ganga originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the Himalayas, in the state of Uttarakhand.
Important Cities
Some of the important cities along its course include Rishikesh, Haridwar, Kanpur, Allahabad (Prayagraj), Varanasi, and Patna.
Tributaries
Left Bank
The Ramganga, Garra, Gomti, Ghaghara, Gandak, Kosi, and Mahananda are some of the major left bank tributaries.
Right Bank
The Yamuna, Tamsa (Tons), Sone, and Punpun are significant right bank tributaries.
Mouth
The river flows into the Bay of Bengal, forming the Sundarbans Delta, the largest delta in the world.
Flows Through
The Ganga flows through the Gangotri National Park, which is part of the larger Uttarakhand Himalayas.
Geographical Significance
The Ganga River basin is the largest in India, supporting a vast biodiversity and providing water for drinking, agriculture, and industry. The river is also crucial for its cultural and religious significance, with many pilgrims visiting its banks for spiritual purposes.
Environmental Concerns
The Ganga faces significant pollution challenges due to industrial waste, sewage, and religious offerings. Efforts are ongoing to clean and preserve the river for future generations.
The Ganga is not just a river but a symbol of India's age-old culture and civilization, sustaining the life of millions of Indians who live along its course.