Which river system, after entering Bangladesh and joining the Brahmaputra, eventually flows into the Bay of Bengal as the Meghna?

Correct Option

The correct option is

The Ganga

Explanation

The downstream trajectory of major Himalayan rivers as they traverse the Bengal Delta. It specifically tests knowledge of the nomenclature changes and confluences of the Ganga and Brahmaputra systems within Bangladesh.

Detailed Analysis

• The Ganga: Originating in the Himalayas, the Ganga flows across northern India. It enters Bangladesh near Farakka, where its main distributary is known as the Padma.
• Interaction with Brahmaputra: The Brahmaputra enters Bangladesh and takes the name Jamuna. The Jamuna joins the Padma.
• Formation of the Meghna: The combined stream of the Padma and Jamuna flows southeast and merges with the Meghna River (which is fed by the Barak river system from India). From this confluence, the massive river flows into the Bay of Bengal under the name Meghna.

Analysis of Incorrect Options:

• The Yamuna The Yamuna: This is the longest tributary of the Ganga within India. It merges with the Ganga at Prayagraj and loses its independent identity long before the river reaches Bangladesh.
• The Indus The Indus: The Indus river system flows westward through Ladakh and Pakistan, draining into the Arabian Sea. It is geographically distinct from the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta.
• The Mahanadi The Mahanadi: This is a major Peninsular river that flows through Chhattisgarh and Odisha directly into the Bay of Bengal. It does not flow through Bangladesh.

Key Takeaway: In Bangladesh, the Ganga becomes the Padma, joins the Jamuna (Brahmaputra), and finally merges with the Meghna before discharging into the Bay of Bengal.