A recent report predicts that by 2050, the floodplains of the Ganga and Mekong rivers will experience a decrease in the frequency of tropical storms. The Ganga Basin, covering parts of India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Tibet, is home to the sacred Ganga River, significant in Hinduism and culturally revered. In contrast, the Mekong Basin spans several Southeast Asian countries, including China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, where the Mekong River serves as a vital lifeline supporting agriculture, fisheries, and transportation. This region is also renowned for its rich biodiversity, including unique aquatic species like the Mekong giant catfish.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Ganga Basin: One of the world’s largest river basins, it encompasses regions in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Tibet and is defined by the presence of the sacred Ganga River, holding immense cultural and religious importance, particularly in Hinduism.
- Mekong Basin: A vast region spanning multiple Southeast Asian countries, including China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, where the Mekong River plays a pivotal role in supporting agriculture, fisheries, and transportation.
- Tropical Storms: These are powerful weather systems characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and thunderstorms. In the context of the report, the frequency of tropical storms in these regions is discussed in relation to climate change predictions.
- Mekong Giant Catfish: An iconic and critically endangered species native to the Mekong Basin, known for its immense size and unique features. It serves as a symbol of the region’s biodiversity and ecological significance.
