Largest river basin in India β Threats and Conservation Efforts
The Ganga River basin faces several significant threats, which have adverse effects on its ecosystem, biodiversity, and the millions of people who depend on it for their livelihoods. Some of these threats are:
- Pollution
- Deforestation
- Habitat Loss
- Over-extraction of Water
- Climate Change
- Loss of Biodiversity
- Invasive Species (eg: Water hyacinth)
- Poor Governance and Management
Addressing these threats requires concerted efforts from governments, policymakers, civil society organizations, and local communities to promote sustainable development, improve water quality, conserve biodiversity, and mitigate the impacts of climate change in the Ganga River basin. The following efforts have been made as of now:
- Namami Gange Programme: Launched in 2014, it was aimed at cleaning the Ganga River and its tributaries. It focused on sewage treatment infrastructure, riverfront development, solid waste management, and public awareness campaigns.
- National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG): It is the implementing agency of the Namami Gange Programme. It monitors activities related to Ganga rejuvenation.
- Ganga Action Plan (GAP): Launched in 1985, it was aimed at reducing pollution in the Ganga River. It involved the construction of sewage treatment plants, interception and divergence of industrial wastage, and public awareness campaigns.
- Biodiversity Conservation Initiatives: These are the efforts aimed at the conservation of flagship species like the Ganges River Dolphin and the Gharial, and critical habitats like the mangrove forests.
- Afforestation and Watershed Management: These programs are implemented to prevent soil erosion, enhance groundwater recharge, and improve the health of the basin ecosystem.
- Riverfront Development Projects: These are undertaken to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the Ganga riverfront, improve public access to the river, and promote tourism.
- International Collaboration: The government collaborates with international organizations and governments to exchange knowledge, technology, and best practices to protect and conserve the Ganga River.
Largest River Basin in India
The largest river basin in India is the Ganga Basin (Ganges Basin). It is named after the Ganges River, which is the main river within the basin and one of the most significant rivers in the region. The Ganga Basin covers parts of India, Nepal, China, and Bangladesh.
It plays a very important role in the cultural, economic, and ecological scene of the region. Let us learn more about the largest river basin of India.