Explanation: The Ganga-Brahmaputra basin is one of the largest river basins in the world, covering parts of India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. This basin is characterized by its rich agricultural lands, diverse ecosystems, and significant economic activities. The port that serves this vast and rich hinterland is the port of Kolkata, which is located in West Bengal, India.
Kolkata, historically known as Calcutta, is a major metropolitan city and a significant economic hub in eastern India. The port of Kolkata, also known as the Haldia Dock Complex, is one of the oldest and largest ports in India. It is strategically located on the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, and serves as a gateway for the entire Ganga-Brahmaputra basin. The port's location allows it to handle a large volume of trade and transportation needs, including imports and exports of goods, raw materials, and finished products.
The port of Kolkata has a rich history dating back to the colonial era when it was a major trading center for the British East India Company. Over the years, the port has undergone significant modernization and expansion to meet the growing demands of the region. It is equipped with modern facilities and infrastructure, including container terminals, cargo handling equipment, and storage facilities, which make it capable of serving the extensive hinterland of the Ganga-Brahmaputra basin.
In contrast, other ports in West Bengal, such as Haldia and Paradwip, have more specialized roles. Haldia, while an important port, primarily serves the industrial needs of the nearby areas and is a subsidiary of the Kolkata port. Paradwip, on the other hand, is a major port focused on the petrochemical industry and does not serve the entire Ganga-Brahmaputra basin.
Chennai, located in Tamil Nadu, is a major port but is not part of the Ganga-Brahmaputra basin and does not serve the region's hinterland.
In conclusion, the port of Kolkata is the correct answer as it serves the vast and rich hinterland of the Ganga-Brahmaputra basin, making it a crucial economic gateway for the region.