The correct answer is D) Barges with raked shaped bows. Barges with raked or tapered bow shapes offer the least resistance when towing in rivers and other waterways. This is because the raked bow design helps the barge slice through the water more efficiently, reducing drag and fuel consumption compared to square-ended or ship-shaped barges. The tapered bow allows the barge to more easily displace water as it moves, resulting in lower overall resistance. The other options are less efficient for river towing. Square-ended barges have higher frontal area and more resistance, while hopper barges and ship-shaped barges are designed more for open-water operations rather than river towing.