Explanation: The Ganga River Basin is a vast geographical region in India that includes all the land drained by the Ganga River and its numerous tributaries. This basin is one of the most significant in India, covering a large portion of the northern part of the country. The Ganga River, also known as the Ganges, is one of the most sacred rivers in Hinduism and plays a crucial role in the cultural and economic life of the region.
The Ganga River originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the Himalayas and flows through several states before merging into the Bay of Bengal. Major tributaries of the Ganga include the Yamuna, Gomti, Ghaghara, Gandak, and Kosi rivers. The basin is home to numerous cities and towns, many of which are significant urban centers and have historical, cultural, and economic importance.
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is located on the banks of the Gomti River, which is a tributary of the Ganga. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage and is an important administrative and commercial center within the basin. Patna, the capital of Bihar, is situated on the banks of the Ganga River itself. It is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and has played a significant role in Indian history and culture.
In contrast, Guwahati and Dispur, mentioned in option B, are located in the northeastern part of India and are part of the Brahmaputra River Basin. The Brahmaputra River, which originates in Tibet, flows through Assam and eventually merges into the Ganga River in Bangladesh. These cities are not part of the Ganga River Basin and are geographically distinct from the region drained by the Ganga and its tributaries.
Understanding the geographical distribution of river basins in India is essential for comprehending the country's natural resources, water management, and urban development. The Ganga River Basin, with its numerous cities and towns, is a critical area for both environmental and socio-economic studies.