Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Ganga River:

1. Ganga bifurcates at Devprayag.

2. Ganga bifurcates at Farakka.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• A. 1 only
• B. 2 only
• C. Both 1 and 2
• D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 1

Answer:

B. 2 only

• Correct Answer: Option B - 2 only

• This question tests understanding of the Ganga River's course and its bifurcation points.

• Statement 1: Ganga bifurcates at Devprayag - This statement is incorrect. Devprayag is not where the Ganga bifurcates; rather, it's where the Ganga originates. Devprayag is the confluence (sangam) where two headstreams - the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers - meet to form the main Ganga River.

• Statement 2: Ganga bifurcates at Farakka - This statement is correct. At Farakka in West Bengal, the Ganga splits into two branches: the main stream continues as the Padma River (which flows into Bangladesh), and a smaller distributary called the Bhagirathi-Hooghly (which flows through West Bengal).

• The Farakka Barrage was constructed at this bifurcation point to divert water from the Ganga into the Bhagirathi-Hooghly river system to maintain navigability of Kolkata Port.