Rivers have played a significant role in the lives of humans all across the world from prehistoric times. Their functions include serving as a supply of potable water, a source of food, a mode of transportation for goods, and a means of fertilising the land. In addition, rivers offer an important home for a diverse range of wildlife species. They play a critical role in the survival of the rainforest and wetland ecosystems. In terms of importance, these are the longest rivers in the world and the most important waterways.
Ganges
The 2,510-kilometer (1,560-mile) long Ganges River rises in India’s western Himalayas and empties into the Bay of Bengal near the Sunderbans delta. Considered as the goddess Ganga in Hinduism, it is the longest river in world, regarded as a sacred river by Hindus. Many past provincial or imperial capitals were situated on its rivers, which has made it significant historically.
River of Sepik
The Sepik River is New Guinea’s longest river. Central Highlands of Papua New Guinea’s Victor Emanuel Range are where the river’s source can be found. The Sepik River, such as the Amazon River, snakes its way to the Bismarck Sea for the majority of its course. Unlike many others of comparable size, the Sepik River has no delta and empties directly into the ocean. There are 1,126 kilometres of the river’s overall length (700 miles). The Sepik River does not have any major settlements. As a result of its geographical separation, the river’s little tribal communities have developed one of the most distinctive and diverse artistic traditions. It’s one of the Largest river in the world and the last unspoiled landscape.
Danube
When it comes to European rivers, there are few more significant than those that flow through the Danube. One of the Roman Empire’s long-standing frontiers, the river now divides 10 European countries. After starting in Germany’s Black Forest and flowing eastward for 2850 kilometres (1771 miles), it empties into the Black Sea after passing through four capital cities. Rhine-Main–Danube Canal was completed in 1992.
The Mississippi River
The Mississippi Rivers is North America’s 2nd longest river, stretching 3730 kilometres in total. In addition to passing through or bordering ten states in the United States, the Mississippi River is a stunning sight to see with its broad and winding course. Since it provides power to several local cities, it is the longest river in the world and is the most important commercial water source. There are a wide variety of creatures that call it home, as well as many species of birds and fish that migrate through it.
The Murray River.
The Murray River is the longest river in Australia and is located in the country’s southeast. It runs through New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia for a total distance of 2508 kilometres. Water supplies like the Murray River are critical in Australia’s dry and arid climate. Approximately 1.5 million Australians rely on this river for their drinking water, and it is also used as an irrigation source for local farms.
Mekong
4,350 kilometres long, the Mekong River is the 12th longest river in world (2,703 miles). This river originates on the Tibetan Plateau and travels through China’s Yunnan province, Laos, Thailand, Burma, Vietnam and Cambodia. Only the Amazon River Basin has more biological diversity than the Mekong Basin. Several species, like the manatee and Mekong dolphin, have been extinct as a result of the construction of the first Chinese dam.
London’s River Thames
In the south of England, the Thames River flows through the city of London. The river flows into the North Sea after a journey of 346 kilometres. The longest river is entirely within England (that is not including the rest of the UK).
This river was crucial because it provided a passage from continental Europe across the English Channel and right into the centre of the city for travellers and traders. Tower Bridge, Parliament, cathedrals, and tourist sites can all be situated along the river’s shore in recent times.
Conclusion
The Ganges River rises in India’s western Himalayas and empties into the Bay of Bengal. New Guinea’s longest river, the Sepik River, snakes its way to the Bismarck Sea. The Danube divides 10 European countries and passes through four capital cities. The Murray River is the largest river in the world and is located in the country’s southeast. The Mekong River is 4,350 kilometres long and originates on the Tibetan Plateau.