Read the passage carefully and answer the question. The Ganges River, 1. ______ through the northern plains of India, holds immense cultural and spiritual significance. It 2. ______ as a lifeline for millions of people who depend on it for drinking water, irrigation, and transportation. However, the river 3. ______ faces severe pollution due to industrial waste, sewage, and religious offerings. Efforts are being made to 4. ______ the river, with the government implementing various cleaning projects. It is essential for the public to 5. __________ these efforts to restore the Ganges to its pristine state. Question: Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 1.

1. flowing
2. flow
3. flows
4. flowed