Why in news?
Environmental groups have urged authorities to protect the Bhagirathi river after a study revealed increasing erosion and flood risk along its course. The river holds religious significance and forms the headwaters of the Ganga.
Geography and course
- The Bhagirathi originates from the Gangotri glacier at Gaumukh in Uttarakhand’s Himalayas. It flows through the towns of Gangotri, Uttarkashi and Tehri before joining the Alaknanda at Devprayag, where the two rivers become the Ganga.
- Major tributaries include the Kedar Ganga, Jadh Ganga and the Bhilangna. The river passes through steep gorges, fertile valleys and the man‑made Tehri reservoir.
Religious and cultural significance
- In Hindu tradition, the Bhagirathi is named after King Bhagiratha, who is said to have brought the heavenly Ganga down to earth through penance. Pilgrims visit sites such as Gangotri and Devprayag to offer prayers and bathe in its waters.
- Festivals like Ganga Dussehra celebrate the river’s descent, and it features prominently in classical texts and folklore.
Environmental concerns
- Rapid erosion along the banks, triggered by deforestation and construction, increases sediment load and raises flood risk downstream.
- Hydropower projects, tunnels and road widening disturb the river’s natural flow and threaten aquatic biodiversity.
- Glacial retreat due to climate change affects the river’s seasonal discharge, leading to unpredictable flow patterns.
Conservation measures
- Afforestation and soil‑conservation projects in the catchment area can reduce erosion and stabilise slopes.
- Environmental Impact Assessments must be stringent for new hydropower and infrastructure projects, with mandatory wildlife corridors and fish ladders.
- Community awareness and participation in river clean‑up drives and monitoring can foster stewardship of this sacred river.
