Question

Describe the catchment area, terrain flow pattern of the Ganga river system.

Answer 1

1. Catchment Area:
   • The Ganga river system has a vast catchment area of about 8,61,404 sq. km within India.
   • It covers the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and parts of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi.
   • The river's basin is fed by many tributaries like the Yamuna, Ghaghara, Gandak, Kosi, and Son.
2. Terrain:
   • The Ganga flows from the Himalayan mountains in the north to the Gangetic plains and eventually into the Bay of Bengal in the south.
   • The upper course (originating from the Gangotri Glacier in Uttarakhand) is steep and narrow, forming gorges.
   • As the river enters the plains, it widens and flattens, forming meanders and floodplains in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal.
   • The Sunderban Delta is a famous feature at the river's mouth.
3. Flow Pattern:
   • The Ganga follows a southeastward flow pattern, originating in the Himalayas and flowing across the plains.
   • The river experiences a rapid descent in its upper course and slows down as it enters the plains.
   • It meanders through the plains, creating wide floodplains.
   • The flow is perennial, fed by glaciers, monsoons, and seasonal rainfall, ensuring year-round flow.