**Speed of River Ganga**

The River Ganga, also known as the Ganges, is one of the most significant rivers in India. It holds immense cultural, historical, and religious importance for the people of India. The speed of a river refers to how fast the water flows in a particular section of the river. The speed of the River Ganga can vary depending on several factors, including the season, the location along the river, and the topography of the area.

**1. Factors Affecting the Speed of River Ganga**

- **Season:** The speed of the River Ganga can vary significantly throughout the year due to seasonal changes. During the monsoon season, which generally lasts from June to September, the river experiences heavy rainfall, leading to increased water flow and higher speed. In contrast, during the dry season, from October to May, the water flow reduces, resulting in slower currents.

- **Gradient and Topography:** The speed of a river is influenced by the gradient or slope of the river bed. The River Ganga originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the Himalayas, where the gradient is relatively steep. As it flows downstream into the plains, the gradient decreases, causing the speed of the river to decrease as well. Additionally, the topography of the surrounding land can affect the speed of the river. Steep valleys and narrow gorges can accelerate the flow, while wider floodplains can slow it down.

- **Obstructions and Tributaries:** The presence of obstructions such as rocks, boulders, and vegetation can influence the speed of the river. These obstructions can create eddies and turbulence, causing variations in the flow velocity. Additionally, tributaries joining the River Ganga can contribute to increased flow and speed.

**2. Average Speed of River Ganga**

It is challenging to determine the average speed of the entire River Ganga due to its vast length and varying conditions. However, various studies and measurements have been conducted at specific locations along the river. In general, the speed of the River Ganga ranges from a few meters per second to around one meter per second in most areas. However, during the monsoon season, the speed can increase significantly due to the increased water flow.

**Conclusion**

The speed of the River Ganga is influenced by factors such as the season, gradient, topography, obstructions, and tributaries. While it is challenging to determine the exact average speed of the entire river, it typically ranges from a few meters per second to around one meter per second. The River Ganga plays a vital role in the lives of millions of people, serving as a source of water, transportation, and spirituality.

In the upper region, 25 to 30 kilometer per hour in at a depth of 2 feet at normal season and 2 to 4 kmph at a depth of 10 feet.