Asian Journal of Geographical Research

Originating from the Bhagirathi-Hooghly River system, the historically important Adi Ganga served trade and pilgrims as a distribution stream. Following a significant alteration in its course, the river's environment has gradually degraded as a result of external human activities and natural processes. This study examines the historical changes of Adi Ganga, the shifting path, the reasons behind the decay, and its current condition. This study is conducted with the help of secondary data from sources such as the National Atlas and Thematic Mapping Organisation (NATMO), Survey of India, and Google Images, along with a primary survey. Research results demonstrate minimal water velocity (0.68 m/s) through the channel, together with poor discharge (13.398 cubic m/s) levels that result in shallow waters and heavy sediment deposits. Increasing amounts of waste materials, together with the presence of large amounts of improperly disposed garbage, as well as poorly designed drainage systems, contribute to the river's deteriorating condition, resulting in a decrease in mean depth and width downstream. On the other hand, the water quality of Adi Ganga is characterized by poor ecological conditions, with slightly acidic pH levels and very low dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations. The flow of water through the environment is blocked by recent bridge developments along the rail pillars as structural barriers. A combination of sustainable river management practices, together with community initiatives, is essential to maintain both the ecology and history of the Adi Ganga to save it for future generations.