7. Read the given passage carefully and answer the following questions -
The Ganges River, commonly known as the Ganga in India, is one of the most significant and sacred rivers in the country. Originating from the Gangotri Glacier in the Himalayas, it flows through the northern part of India and spans approximately 2,525 kilometers before emptying into the Bay of Bengal in Bangladesh. The Ganges River Basin is one of the most fertile and densely populated regions in the world, supporting hundreds of millions of people in terms of agriculture, industry, and daily water needs.
The Ganges is not only a lifeline for millions but also holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism. It is considered the embodiment of the goddess Ganga, and its waters are believed to purify sins and pave the way for salvation. Cities like Varanasi and Haridwar, situated along the banks of the Ganga, are major pilgrimage sites where millions of devotees gather for holy dips, especially during festivals like Kumbh Mela.
However, the Ganges faces severe pollution challenges, attributed to industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and human activities. Efforts like the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) and the Namami Gange Programme have been launched to clean and rejuvenate the river, aiming to restore its health and ensure its sustainability for future generations. The Ganges continues to be central to India's cultural, spiritual, and economic fabric.
Question:
Why are cities like Varanasi and Haridwar significant in relation to the Ganges River?