Abstract: India is a land of rivers and due to the rapid rate of urbanization, the Indian cities are creating pressure on their rivers to cater to the demands of not only water needs but also waste disposal. Increasing urbanization in the river basin has several negative consequences for the river basin systems health. The most harmful effects observed as a result of urbanization include changes in the hydrology and geomorphology of streams, as well as deterioration of their water quality. This study investigates the trends of urbanization in India and its impact on the Ganga River concerning anthropogenic activities in the form of Physical, Chemical, and Biological effects on the river. Ganga is one of the sacred rivers of India but today urban development factors such as land use transformation degrade not only water quality but also increase the flooding in the urban areas. Hence, this paper also reviews the various problems towards improving the health of the river and recommendations for effective management of river health and retaining its character. The recommendations of this study could be used as initiatives for mitigating the negative effects of urbanization in the Ganga Basin.