Let's analyze each statement about the Rhine waterways:
- (A) It is navigable for 700 km: This is correct. The Rhine River is navigable for a significant distance, and about 700 km of it is used for shipping and transportation.
- (B) It flows through a rich coalfield and the whole basin has become a prosperous manufacturing area: This is correct. The Rhine River passes through regions like the Ruhr Valley in Germany, which is known for its rich coalfields and has become one of the most important industrial areas in Europe.
- (C) Ocean-going vessels can reach up to Cologne: This is correct. The Rhine River is deep enough for ocean-going vessels to reach up to Cologne in Germany, though they are limited by the size of the vessels that can navigate further upstream.
- (D) It connects the industrial areas of Switzerland, France, and Russia: This is incorrect. The Rhine River connects Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, but it does not connect to Russia. The river flows from Switzerland to the North Sea, and it does not extend into Russia.
Thus, the incorrect statement is (D) It connects the industrial areas of Switzerland, France, and Russia. Therefore, the correct answer is (D): (D).
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