Yamuna

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Vishram Ghat

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YamunaRiver

Himalayas at dusk from Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Yamunotri temple and ashram

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Chandigarh river

Yamuna is one of the major rivers in India, and is of significant cultural, religious, and environmental importance. It is the longest and the second-largest tributary river of the Ganges in northern India, originating from the Yamunotri Glacier in the Uttarakhand state, and traversing through several states including Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, before merging with the Ganges at Triveni Sangam in Allahabad (now Prayagraj).

Course

The Yamuna originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in the lower Himalayas at an elevation of approximately 6,387 meters above sea level in Uttarakhand. The river travels a total length of about 1,376 kilometers (855 miles), crossing various landscapes and regions, serving as a vital water source for numerous towns and cities along its course. After its confluence with the Ganges, the combined rivers flow eastward into the Bay of Bengal.

Tributaries

The major tributaries of the Yamuna include the Tons, Chambal, Sind, Betwa, and Ken among others. These tributaries contribute significantly to the water volume of the Yamuna, especially during the monsoon season.

Significance

1. 1. 1. Cultural and Religious Importance ###

The Yamuna holds deep cultural and religious significance in Hinduism. It is revered as a goddess, Yamuna Devi, and is an integral part of various religious ceremonies and festivals. The river is also associated with several mythological stories and legends, particularly with Lord Krishna's childhood and youth.

1. 1. 1. Environmental and Ecological Importance ###

The Yamuna River is crucial for the ecological system and biodiversity of the region. It supports a wide range of flora and fauna, including several species of fish and birds. However, the river faces severe pollution challenges due to industrial discharge, untreated sewage, and agricultural runoff, threatening its biodiversity and the health of millions of people dependent on its waters.

Pollution and Conservation Efforts

The Yamuna is considered one of the most polluted rivers in India. Efforts to clean and conserve the river have been ongoing for decades, involving government initiatives, judicial interventions, and civil society actions. Projects like the Yamuna Action Plan have been launched to address the pollution issue, focusing on improving sewage treatment infrastructure and reducing industrial pollutants.

In Literature and Arts

The Yamuna has been a source of inspiration for many poets, writers, and artists throughout Indian history. It is often depicted as a symbol of beauty and purity in literature and arts, despite the environmental challenges it faces.

See Also

• Ganges River
• Water pollution in India
• Environmental issues in India