Water Resources class 10 Ncert geography  MCQ & SAQ

Water Resources class 10 Ncert geography  NCERT SOLUTION:

(i) Based on the information given below, classify each of the situations as 'suffering from water scarcity' or 'not suffering from water scarcity'.

(a) Region with high annual rainfall.

(b) Region having high annual rainfall and large population.

(c) Region having high annual rainfall but water is highly polluted.

(d) Region having low rainfall and low population.

Answer

(a) Not suffering from water scarcity

(b) Suffering from water scarcity

(c) Suffering from water scarcity

(d) Not suffering from water scarcity

(ii) Which one of the following statements is not an argument in favor of multi-purpose river projects?

(a) Multi-purpose projects bring water to those areas which suffer from water scarcity.

(b) Multi-purpose projects by regulating water flow help to control floods.

(c) Multi-purpose projects lead to large scale displacements and loss of livelihood.

(d) Multi-purpose projects generate electricity for our industries and our homes.

► (c) Multi-purpose projects lead to large scale displacements and loss of livelihood.

(iii) Here are some false statements. Identify the mistakes and rewrite them correctly.

(a) Multiplying urban centers with large and dense populations and urban lifestyles have helped in proper utilization of water resources.

(b) Regulating and damming of rivers does not affect the river's natural flow and its sediment flow.

(c) In Gujarat, the Sabarmati basin farmers were not agitated when higher priority was given to water supply in urban areas, particularly during droughts.

(d) Today in Rajasthan, the practice of rooftop rainwater water harvesting has gained popularity despite high water availability due to the Rajasthan Canal.

(a) Multiplying urban centers with large and dense populations and urban lifestyles have caused the over exploitation of water resources.

(b) Regulating and damming of rivers affect their natural flow and cause the sediment to settle at the bottom of the reservoir.

(c) In Gujarat, the Sabarmati basin farmers were agitated when higher priority was given to water supply in urban areas, particularly during droughts.

(d) Today in Rajasthan, the practice of rooftop rainwater harvesting is on the decline due to the Rajasthan canal.

(i) Explain how water becomes a renewable resource.

(ii) What is water scarcity and what are its main causes?

(iii) Compare the advantages and disadvantages of multi-purpose river projects.

(i) Water is a renewable resource as it is renewed by the water cycle itself, where three processes take place as evaporation, condensation and precipitation. This process of water cycle is never ending and hence, water is a renewable resource.

(ii) Water scarcity or water stress occurs when water availability is not enough to match the demand for water. It is caused by an increase in population, growing demand for water, and unequal access to it.

(iii) Multipurpose river projects help in irrigation, electricity production, flood control, inland navigation and fish breeding. However, the reservoirs destroy local flora and fauna. Many native villages are submerged, and people lose their livelihood, with little or no hope of rehabilitation.

(i) Discuss how rainwater harvesting in semi-arid regions of Rajasthan is carried out.

(ii) Describe how modern adaptations of traditional rainwater harvesting methods are being carried out to conserve and store water.

(i) Houses in the semi arid regions of Rajasthan have traditionally constructed tanks for storing drinking water. They are big and are a part of the well-developed rooftop rainwater harvesting system. The tanks are constructed inside the main house or the courtyard, and are connected to the sloping roofs of the houses through a pipe. The rain falling on the rooftop travels down and is stored in the tanks. The first spell of rain is not collected as this water cleans the roof and the pipes. The rainwater from the subsequent spells is collected. This water is used till the next rainy season, and is a reliable source of water even after other sources have dried up. The tanks also help in cooling the houses as rooms built around them have generally low temperatures due to conduction.

(ii) Traditional methods of rainwater harvesting like 'the rooftop method' are becoming popular in India. In Gendathur village, Mysore, about 200 households have adopted the rooftop rainwater harvesting method, thereby making the village rich in rainwater. The state of Tamil Nadu has made it compulsory for all the houses to have rooftop rainwater harvesting structures. Defaulters are severely punished.

Water Resources class 10 Ncert geography  MCQ :

Question : The total volume of the world’s water is estimated to exist as ocean:

a) 75.5%                  b) 85.5%

c) 95.5%                  d) 65.5%

Answer :  C

Question :  Roof top rainwater harvesting is the most common practice in-

a) Shillong                b) Guwahati

c) Imphal                  d) Patna

Answer :  A

Question : On which river has Nagarjuna Sagar Dam been constructed?

a) River Coyana        b) River Krishna

c) River Godavari      d) river Tapti

Answer :  B

Question : How much %of the Earth’s Surface is covered with water?

a) About 70%            b) About 90%

c) About 60%            d) None of these

Answer :  A

Question : What is the rank of India in the world countries in the terms of Water availability per person p.a.?

a) 129th                    b) 130th

c) 131st                    d) 133rd

Answer :  D

Question : It is predicated that nearly 2 billion people will live in absolute water scarcity in the year of –

a) 2015                     b) 2020

c) 2025                     d) 2030

Answer :  C

Question : The first & the only state in India which has made Roof Top Rain water Harvesting Structured compulsory to all the across the state is –

a) Karnataka             b) Tamil Nadu

c) Kerala                   d) none of these

Answer :  B

 

Question :  In which part or state of India people build diversion channels like guls or kuls

• a) Western Himalayas

• b) Arid region

• c) Semi-arid region

• d) Plains of Bengal

Answer :  Western Himalayas

 

Question :  Nagarjuna Sagar dam is across the river

• a) Krishna

• b) Narmada

• c) Periyar

• d) Godavari

Answer :  Krishna

 

Question :  Tungabhadra reservoir is across the river

• a) Tungabhadra

• b) Krishna

• c) Kaveri

• d) Mahanadhi

Answer :  Tungabhadra

 

Question :  The following is the only state where roof top rain water harvesting is made compulsory

• a) Tamilnadu

• b) Assam

• c) Bihar

• d) Maharashtra

Answer :  Tamilnadu

 

Question :  Rain water is referred as

• a) Palar pani

• b) Potable water

• c) Underground water

• d) None of these

Answer :  Palar pani

  

Question :  The first & the only state in India which has made Roof Top Rain water Harvesting Structured compulsory to all the across the state is

• a) Tamil Nadu

• b) Karnataka

• c) None of these

• d) Kerala

Answer :  Tamil Nadu

 

Question :  It is predicated that nearly 2 billion people will live in absolute water scarcity in the year of

• a) 2025

• b) 2020

• c) 2015

• d) 2030

Answer :  2025

 

Question :  What is the rank of India in the world countries in the terms of Water availability per person p.a.?

• a) 133rd

• b) 131st

• c) 130th

• d) 129th

Answer :  133rd

  

Question :  How much percentage (%) of the Earth's Surface is covered with water?

• a) About 70%

• b) About 90%

• c) About 60%

• d) None of these

Answer :  About 70%

 

Question :  On which river has Nagarjuna Sagar Dam been constructed?

• a) River Krishna

• b) River Coyana

• c) River Godavari

• d) River Tapi

Answer :  River Krishna

 

Question :  Roof top rainwater harvesting is the most common practice in-

• a)  Shillong

• b) Guwahati

• c) Imphal

• d) Patna

Answer :  Shillong

 

Question :  The total volume of the world's water is estimated to exist as ocean:

• a) 96.5%

• b) 75.5%

• c) 85.5%

• d) 65.5%

Answer :  96.5%

1. Which of the following is a reason for water scarcity in a region with sufficient water to meet the requirements of the people?

(a) Huge population

(b) Less rainfall

(c) Power requirement

(d) Pollution

► (d) Pollution

2. Which of the following problems arises due to water pollution?

(a) Sedimentation of water bodies

(b) Water-borne diseases

(c) Discharge of industrial waste

(d) Spawning of aquatic life

► (b) Water-borne diseases

3. Which of the following data shows the percentage of global precipitation that is received by India?

(a) 96.5 per cent

(b) 30 percent

(c) 4 percent

(d) 2.5 per cent

► (c) 4 percent

4. Which of the following contributes approximately 22 percent of the total electricity produced in India today?

(a) Solar power

(b) Hydroelectric power

(c) Industries

(d) Geothermal energy

► (b) Hydroelectric power

5. Which of the following areas would you immediately associate with water scarcity?

(a) Deserts of Rajasthan

(b) The Ganga Plains

(c) Hills of North-Eastern India

(d) Coastal areas of Orissa

► (a) Deserts of Rajasthan

6. Which of the following is one of the largest artificial lakes of ancient India built in the 11th century?

(a) Govindsagar Lake

(b) Hauz Khas

(c) Bhopal Lake

(d) Dal Lake

► (c) Bhopal Lake

7. Which of the following hydraulic structures is built in river basins?

(a) Lakes

(b) Dams

(c) Tanks

(d) Water harvesting

► (b) Dams

8. Which of the following hydraulic structures is not a feature of ancient times?

(a) Multipurpose river valley projects

(b) Dams built of stone rubble

(c) Reservoirs or lakes

(d) Embankments and canals

► (a) Multipurpose river valley projects

9. Which of the following hydraulic structures was constructed by Iltutmish in the 14th century for supplying water to the Siri Fort area?

(a) Water harvesting at Sringaverapura near Allahabad

(b) Bhopal Lake

(c) Tank in Hauz Khas, Delhi

(d) Irrigation work at Nagarjunakonda

► (c) Tank in Hauz Khas, Delhi

10. Which of the following multipurpose projects is found in the Satluj-Beas river basin?

(a) Hirakud Project

(b) Damodar Valley Corporation

(c) Bhakra Nangal Project

(d) Rihand Project

► (c) Bhakra Nangal Project

11. In which of the following areas can you find one of the oldest water-harvesting systems of India?

(a) Sringaverapura near Allahabad

(b) Kalinga, Orissa

(c) Bennur, Karnataka

(d) Nagarjunakonda, Andhra Pradesh

► (a) Sringaverapura near Allahabad

12. On which of the following rivers is the Hirakud dam constructed?

(a) Satluj

(b) Beas

(c) Mahanadi

(d) Narmada

► (c) Mahanadi

13. Which of the following state governments have raised the Krishna-Godavari dispute?

(a) Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh

(b) Gujarat and Rajasthan

(c) Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh

(d) Karnataka and Maharashtra

► (a) Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh

14. On which of the following issues did the Narmada Bachao Andolan first focus?

(a) Benefits of irrigation to landless farmers

(b) Environmental issues related to submergence of trees under the dam water

(c) Rehabilitation of the people displaced due to construction of the dam

(d) Economic issues of wastage of money for the construction of the dam

► (b) Environmental issues related to submergence of trees under the dam water

15. On which of the following rivers are the Tilaiya, Panchet, Maithon, Konar and Bokaro dams located?

(a) Satluj

(b) Damodar

(c) Mahanadi

(d) Krishna

► (b) Damodar

16. Which of the following environmental damages are not induced due to multipurpose projects?

(a) Water-borne diseases and pests

(b) Pollution resulting from excessive use of water

(c) Earthquakes

(d) Volcanic activity

► (d) Volcanic activity

17. In which of the following areas are ‘guls’ and ‘kuls’ used to channel water for agriculture?

(a) Deccan Plateau

(b) Deserts of Rajasthan

(c) Western Himalayas

(d) Ganga Plains

► (c) Western Himalayas

18. Which of the following river projects or groups of river projects provide hydroelectricity to the industries of Maharashtra?

(a) Pravara Project and Koyna Project

(b) Hirakud Project

(c) Nagarjuna Sagar Project and Tungabhadra Project

(d) Ghatprabha Project and Mettur Project

► (a) Pravara Project and Koyna Project

19. Due to which of the following reasons are rooftop rainwater harvesting commonly practiced, particularly in Rajasthan?

(a) To store water for irrigation

(b) To keep the house cool

(c) To store drinking water

(d) To clean the rooftops

► (c) To store drinking water

20. Which of the following dams are part of the Chambal Project?

(a) Maithon, Panchet, Tilaiya, Konar, Bokaro

(b) Pravara, Ramagundam

(c) Rana Pratap Sagar, Gandhi Sagar

(d) Sardar Sarovar Dam

► (c) Rana Pratap Sagar, Gandhi Sagar

21. In which of the following states is the bamboo-drip irrigation system prevalent?

(a) Rajasthan

(b) Himachal Pradesh

(c) West Bengal

(d) Meghalaya

► (d) Meghalaya

22. Who among the following proclaimed dams as the temples of modern India?

(a) Rajendra Prasad

(b) Jawaharlal Nehru

(c) Sardar Patel

(d) Mahatma Gandhi

► (b) Jawaharlal Nehru

23. Which one of the following is not an adverse effect of dams?

(a) Interstate water disputes

(b) Excessive sedimentation of Reservoir

(c) Displacement of population

(d) Flood control

► (d) Flood control

24. Bamboo drip irrigation is prevalent in which of the following states?

(a) Rajasthan

(b) Meghalaya

(c) Karnataka

(d) Madhya Pradesh

► (b) Meghalaya

25. Which of the following structures are known as ‘tankas’?

(a) Underground tanks for storing rainwater harvested from roof tops for drinking purpose

(b) Tanks constructed on rooftops for storing rainwater

(c) Tanks constructed in agricultural fields to store rainwater

(d) Tanks constructed to store floodwater

► (a) Underground tanks for storing rainwater harvested from roof tops for drinking purpose

26. Which of the following rivers is not having any multipurpose river project?

(a) Satluj-Beas

(b) Mahanadi

(c) Narmada

(d) Yamuna

► (d) Yamuna

27. Rooftop rainwater harvesting system in Rajasthan is known as:

(a) Guls

(b) Kuls

(c) Tankas

(d) Baobs

► (c) Tankas

28. Which of the following is not a method of water harvesting used in Rajasthan?

(a) Johads

(b) Khadins

(c) Guls

(d) Tankas

► (c) Guls

29. On which one of the following rivers Mettur dam is constructed?

(a) River Kaveri

(b) River Krishna

(c) River Godavari

(d) River Mahanadi

► (a) River Kaveri

30. How much of the earth's surface is covered with water?

(a) About 1/4

(b) About 1/2

(c) About 3/4

(d) About 2/3

► (c) About 3/4

31. Which of the following rivers is not having any multipurpose river project?

(a) Satluj-Beas

(b) Mahanadi

(c) Narmada

(d) Yamuna

► (d) Yamuna

32. Which of the following is a source of Freshwater?

(a) Precipitation

(b) Surface runoff

(c) Groundwater

(d) All the above

► (c) Groundwater

33. In which one of the following states was rooftop rainwater harvesting practiced?

(a) West Bengal

(b) Haryana

(c) Rajasthan

(d) Punjab

► (c) Rajasthan

34. On which one of the following rivers the Tehri Dam is being constructed?

(a) Bhagirathi

(b) Yamuna

(c) Koshi

(d) Sutlej

► (d) Sutlej

35. What is the contribution of hydroelectricity in the total generation of electricity?

(a) 52%

(b) 42%

(c) 32%

(d) 22%

► (d) 22%

36. Salal Dam is built on which river?

(a) Chenab

(b) Mahanadi

(c) Krishna

(d) Satluj

► (a) Chenab

37. Hirakud dam is built on which river?

(a) Chenab

(b) Mahanadi

(c) Krishna

(d) Satluj

► (b) Mahanadi

38. Which of the following is not one of the reasons for criticism of multipurpose river valley projects?

(a) They create a rockier stream bed

(b) They create poorer habitats for the river’s aquatic life

(c) The reservoirs created in the floodplain submerge vegetation

(d) They help in generation of hydroelectricity

► (d) They help in generation of hydroelectricity

39. In which of the following regions, people built ‘Guls’ and ‘Kuls’ for irrigation?

(a) Northern Plains

(b) Western Himalayas

(c) Coastal areas

(d) None of these

► (b) Western Himalayas

40. Tanka, a rainwater harvesting technique, is associated with which of the following states?

(a) Tamil Nadu

(b) West Himalayas

(c) Gujarat

(d) Rajasthan

► (d) Rajasthan

41. What percentage of the total volume of world’s water is estimated to exist as oceans?

(a) 94.5%

(b) 95.5%

(c) 96.5%

(d) 97.5%

► (c) 96.5%

42. Against the construction of which one of the following multipurpose projects was the Narmada Bachao Andolan launched?

(a) Sardar Sarovar

(b) Bhakra Nangal

(c) Rihand

(d) Tehri

► (a) Sardar Sarovar

43. On which of the following rivers is Koyna dam built?

(a) Krishna

(b) Kaveri

(c) Ganga

(d) Mahanadi

► (a) Krishna

44. In which one of the following states palar pani is considered the purest form of natural water?

(a) Gujarat

(b) Rajasthan

(c) Madhya Pradesh

(d) Chhattisgarh

► (b) Rajasthan

45. Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is built on which river?

(a) Clenab

(b) Mahanadi

(c) Krishna

(d) Satluj

► (c) Krishna

Water Resources class 10 Ncert geography  SAQ:

What is rainwater harvesting? Explain any two different methods of rainwater harvesting in different regions of India. [2010, 2011 (T-1)]

Ans. Rainwater harvesting is a system in which rain water is collected through various techniques and then collected water is used in many ways.

(i) Hill region - In hilly regions people built diversion channels like the ‘‘guls’’ or ‘‘kuls’’ in the western Himalayas for agriculture. With these channels rainwater is used in meaningful ways.

(ii) Arid region - In Rajasthan almost all houses had underground tanks. These tanks were part of a well developed rooftop rainwater harvesting system. They were connected to the sloping roof of the houses through a pipe. Rain falling on the rooftops would travel down the pipe and get stored in these underground ‘tankas’.

Q.2. What is a multipurpose river valley project? Give any four objectives of the multipurpose river valley project. [2010, 2011 (T-1)]

Ans. The multipurpose river valley project is a river project in which a dam is constructed on the river and stored water is then used in a number of purposes like irrigation, power generation etc.

Four objectives of multipurpose projects are :—

(i) To check floods by regulating flow of water.

(ii) To generate hydro power for our industries and homes.

(iii) To provide irrigation facilities. This helps in increasing agriculture productivity and bringing more area under cultivation.

(iv) To check soil Erosion.

 

Q.3. Discuss how rainwater harvesting in semi-arid regions of Rajasthan is carried out. [2010 (T-1)]

Ans. Rain water harvesting in semi-arid regions of Rajasthan is carried out in the following ways :- In Bikaner, Phalodi and Barmer, almost all the houses traditionally had underground tanks or ‘‘tank’’ for storing drinking water. The tanks could be as large as a big room; one household in Phalodi had a tank that was 6.1 meters deep, 4.27 meters long and 2.44 meters wide. The tankas were part of the well developed rooftop rainwater harvesting system and were built inside the main house or the courtyard. They were connected to the sloping roofs of the houses through a pipe. Rain falling on the rooftops would travel down the pipe and was stored in these underground ‘tankas’.

 

Q.4. Describe three traditional methods of rainwater harvesting practiced in India. [2010, 2011 (T-1)]

Ans. In India traditionally rainwater harvesting is done in the following ways :—

(i) In hilly regions people built diversion channels like the guls or kuls for agriculture.

(ii) In Rajasthan rooftop rainwater harvesting is practiced.

(iii) In Bengal people built inundation channels to irrigate their fields.

(iv) In arid and semi-arid regions people convert their agricultural fields into rainfed storage structures.

 

Q.5. Give three reasons for water scarcity in post-independence India [2010, 2011 (T-1)]

Ans. Three reasons for water scarcity in India are :–

(i) Post-independence India has witnessed intensive industrialisation and urbanization which increased water demand.

(ii) Large urban centers with large and dense populations and urban lifestyles have only added to water requirements.

(iii) Population explosion after independence led to overexploitation of underground water for irrigation.

 

Q.6. ‘Three-fourths of the earth’s surface is covered with water but there is still scarcity of water across the globe.’ Explain giving three reasons. [2010, 2011 (T-1)]

Ans. Water scarcity is due to the following causes :—

(i) Water availability varies over space and time mainly due to the variation in seasonal and annual precipitation.

(ii) Rapid urbanization is another factor for water scarcity.

(iii) Rapid increase in population that demands more and more water.

(iv) Industrialisation is another cause, large industrial houses are using more and more water, they also require more water to generate electricity.

(v) Rising income levels also create more demand for water.

(vi) 96.5 per cent of the total volume of world’s water is estimated to exist as oceans and only 2.5 per cent as fresh water. Nearly 70 per cent of this freshwater occurs as ice sheets and glaciers, while a little less than 30 per cent is stored as groundwater in the world’s aquifers.

 

Q.7. How have industrialisation and urbanization aggravated water scarcity in India? [2010, 2011 (T-1)]

Ans. Industrialisation and urbanization have aggravated water scarcity in India in the following ways :

(i) Large industrial houses are exerting pressure on existing freshwater resources. Industries apart from being heavy users of water also require water power to run them.

(ii) Multiplying urban centers with large and dense populations and urban lifestyles have not only added to water and energy requirements but further aggravated the problems. Water resources are being over-exploited.

 

Q.8. Why is the conservation and management of water resources important? Give any three reasons. [2010 (T-1)]

                                                                     OR

 Why is there an urgent need to conserve and manage our water resources? Give three reasons. [2011 (T-1)]

Ans. The conservation and proper management of water is necessary because of following reasons:

(i) Growing population :- As population is growing its need for water is also growing, so it is necessary to properly manage the availability of water.

(ii) Increasing Urbanization :- More and more people are moving to cities where the need for water is growing. On the other hand, cities are overexploiting and polluting water resources, so there is a need to conserve water.

(iii) Due to industrialisation also water is being overexploited. So, without proper conservation it would be difficult to survive.

 

Q.9. Explain any three disadvantages of multipurpose projects. [2010, 2011 (T-1)]

Ans. Three disadvantages of multipurpose projects are :-

(i) A large area is submerged with water causing destruction of wildlife and forests.

(ii) A large number of people living in the affected areas are displaced, so their rehabilitation remains a problem.

(iii) Aquatic life and natural course of rivers get affected. Multipurpose projects had to destroy flora and fauna.

 

Q.10. Why are different water harvesting systems considered a viable alternative both socio - economically and environmentally in a country like India? [2010, 2011 (T-1)]

Ans. No single method can be applicable everywhere. It is true in the case of rainwater harvesting systems too, as geographically there are different regions. Different regions have different methods.

(i) In the Hilly region :- Through kuls or guls it is very easy to divert water for irrigation. It is a low cost method.

(ii) In the Arid region :- Like in Rajasthan rainwater is collected on roofs, then piped into ground storage systems. That method is also economical, needing no extra effort.

(iii) In villages agricultural fields are converted into ponds where rainwater is collected. All these methods are very easy and viable.

 

Q.11. How far have the multipurpose projects been able to achieve their purpose for which they were made? Explain. [2010 (T-1)]

Ans. To some extent multipurpose river valley projects have been able to achieve their purpose. Irrigation has increased, power generation is a classic example of their success. But there are some concerns too.

(i) They have obstructed the natural flow of rivers causing destruction of habitat aquatic life.

(ii) People have also been affected as their habitat too have been submerged. It leads to socio economic problems of big magnitude as lakhs of people are displaced.

(iii) This has led to huge destruction of flora and fauna, forests and biodiversity.

 

Q.12. Why is the need for water increasing day by day? Explain three reasons. [2011 (T-1)]

Ans.

(i) Rapid industrialisation and urbanization have led to greater demand for water. Industries need water for various purposes.

(ii) Large population means more water is needed for domestic use and for agriculture to produce more food.

(iii) Multiplying urban centers with large and dense population and urban life-styles have led to greater need for water.

 

Q.13. Give an account of any three hydraulic structures of ancient India. [2011 (T-1)]

Ans.

(i) During the period of Chandragupta Maurya - dams, lakes and irrigation systems were extensively built.

(ii) In the 11th century, Bhopal lake, one of the largest artificial lakes of its time was built.

(iii) In the first century B.C. Sringaverpur near Allahabad had a large and complex water harvesting system channeling the water of the Ganga.

 

Q.14. ‘Large multi-purpose projects also lead to land degradation.’ Explain. [2011 (T-1)]

Ans. Regulating and damaging of rivers affect their natural flow causing poor sediment flow and excessive sedimentation at the bottom of reservoirs. Large reservoirs submerge large tracts of forests, flora and fauna. They also submerge soil leading to its decomposition over a period of time.

What was considered as a viable alternative to the multipurpose projects and why ? [CBSE 2013]

Ans. The. Disadvantages and rising resistance against the multipurpose projects, has led us to conclude that the water harvesting system is a viable alternative, both socio-economically and environmentally.

Name two techniques of roof top rain water harvesting. [CBSE 2009(0)]

Ans. (i) Recharge through a hand pump.

(ii) Recharge through an abandoned dug well.

Define the term Tankas. [CBSE 2008 (F)]

Ans. Tankas are the underground tanks for storing drinking water

Name the river on which the Hirakud dam is located. [CBSE 2013]

Ans. Mahanadi

Name the river on which the Bhakra Nangal dam is located. [CBSE 2014]

Ans. Satluj

How has agriculture aggravated the problem of water scarcity in India ? Explain. [CBSE 2014]

Ans. (i) Water is a basic input in agriculture. It is used for irrigation.

(ii) HYV seeds need more water as compared to traditional seeds.

(iii) Commercialisation of agriculture has also led to withdrawal of groundwater at a large scale.

(iv) Overuse of groundwater is another problem associated with agriculture. The water table has lowered in many parts of India due to its overuse.

How does urbanization and urban lifestyle lead to over-exploitation of water resources ? Explain.[CBSE 2013]

Ans. (i) Most of our cities are overpopulated.

Overpopulation leads to our utilization of water resources.

(ii) Urbanisation, especially unplanned urbanisation, adds to water pollution.

(iii) Urbanization also damages the existing water resources especially the river. For example, most of Indian river have been polluted by the waste of cities

Is it possible that an area or region may have ample water resources but is still facing water scarcity ? Explain with the help of three relevant examples. [CBSE 2013] 

Ans. Yes it is possible that an area or region may have ample water resources but is still facing water scarcity. Most of our cities are facing this problem.

(i) In most of our cities there is no shortage of water but the water is unfit for consumption.

(ii) Most of our cities are on the banks of rivers, but rivers have been turned into toxic streams.

(iii) The ever increasing population, industries and vehicles has made matters worse by exerting pressure on existing freshwater resources.

What is the importance of water ? [CBSE 2012]

Or

“Water is a very important and critical resource in India.” Support the statement by explaining any three points. [CBSE 2013]

Ans. (i) Water is vital for human survival.

(ii) Water is used for transportation.

(iii) In industries water is used as a coolant.

(iv) Water is also used for power production.

(v) Water is a basic input for agriculture.

How do increasing numbers of industries exert pressure on existing freshwater resources ? [CBSE 2012]

Ans. (i) industries used water as coolant, raw material, solvent, etc.

(ii) Industries release harmful chemicals which contaminate water.

(iii) Most of the Indian rivers are polluted due to toxic chemicals which are released by industries.

How has irrigation changed the cropping pattern? What is its impact on the social landscape ? [CBSE Sep 2012]

Ans. Due to irrigation facilities many farmers have shifted to water intensive and commercial crops. For example, Punjab has become a major producer of rice in spite of low rainfall.

Impact on social landscape:- This transformation has widened the gap between rich and poor. The rich and mighty who can afford higher inputs have become more rich whereas the poor have failed to get benefits due to lack of capital.

Explain three ways in which irrigation schemes have changed the social landscape of the region. [CBSE 2012]

Ans. (i) Displacement of the local people : Local people often had to give up their land, livelihood and their meager access and control over resources for the greater good of the nation.

(ii) Social movements : Multipurpose projects and large dams have also been the cause of many new social movements like the ‘Narmada Bachao Andolan’ and the ‘Tehri Dam Andolan’, etc.

(iii) Widening the gap between rich and poor : Multipurpose projects have widened the gap between rich and poor. The landlords, large farmers and industrialists are getting benefits at the cost of the poor.

Multipurpose projects have failed to achieve the purpose for which they were built”. Justify by giving reasons. [CBSE 2014]

Ans. (i) These dams were constructed to control floods but they have triggered floods due to sedimentation in the reservoir.

(ii) Moreover, the big dams have mostly been unsuccessful in controlling floods at the time of excessive rainfall.

(iii) Many a time authorities are forced to release water from dams during heavy rainfall.

f) What is a multipurpose project ? [CBSE 2009 (D) ; Sept. 2010, 11] 

(ii) Why did Pandit Jawahar Lai Nehru proclaim the river dams as the ‘Temples of Modem India?’ Explain the main reason. [CBSE 2014]

Ans. (i) A multipurpose project is that which fulfills a variety of purposes at the same time, for example – irrigation, generation of electricity, flood control, fish breeding, soil conservation, etc.

(ii) It would integrate development of agriculture and the village economy with rapid industrialisation and the growth of urban economy.

Why are different water harvesting systems considered a viable alternative both socio economically and environmentally in a country like India ? [CBSE Sept. 2010, 2011]

Ans. (i) Water harvesting is a very cheap and affordable method of conservation of water.

(ii) Indian people have in-depth knowledge of rainfall regime and soil type. They have developed techniques to harvest rainwater, groundwater, rain water and flood water in keeping with the local ecological conditions and their water needs.

(iii) Rainwater harvesting techniques are more environmental friendly as compare to multipurpose river project

Water Resources class 10 Ncert geography  LONG QUESTION

How have the growing population, industrialisation and urbanization led to water scarcity ? Explain.[CBSE 2008 (D)]

Or

Explain any four reasons responsible for water scarcity in India. [CBSE 2010(D), Sept. 2012]

Or

How have industrialisation and urbanization aggravated water scarcity in India ? [CBSE Sept. 2010, 14]

Or

Give three reasons for water scarcity in post independent India. [CBSE Sept. 2010]

Or

‘Three-fourths of the earth’s surface is covered with water but there is still scarcity of water across the globe.’ Explain giving three reasons. [CBSE 2011]

Ans. (i) Growing population : Growing population is one of the basic factors which is responsible for the scarcity of water. Most of our cities are facing this problem due to overpopulation. A large population means more water not only for domestic use but also to produce more food.

(ii) Commercialisation of agriculture : After the success of the Green Revolution, our farmers are producing commercial crops. The commercial crops need more water and other inputs. Assured means of irrigation like tube wells and wells are responsible for the falling groundwater levels.

(iii) Industrialisation : Post-independent India witnessed intensive industrialisation and urbanization. Today, large industrial houses are common in the form of industrial units of many MNCs (Multinational Corporations). The ever increasing number of industries has made matters worse by exerting pressure on the existing freshwater resources. Industries, apart from being heavy users of water, also require power to run them. Much of this energy comes from hydroelectric power.

(iv) Urbanization : Urbanization has also aggravated the problem of water scarcity. Most of our cities are overpopulated. Overpopulation leads to over- utilization of the water resources, and also pollutes the existing resources.

How do the multipurpose river projects affect aquatic life ? Explain.

Or

Explain the ecological problems being faced due to the multi-purpose river projects. [CBSE 2013]

Ans. In recent years, the multi-purpose projects and large dams have come under great scrutiny and opposition for a variety of reasons :

(i) Regulating and damming of rivers affect their natural flow causing poor sediment flow and excessive sedimentation at the bottom of the reservoir, resulting in rockier stream beds and poorer habitats for the rivers, as well as the aquatic life.

(ii) Dams also fragment rivers making it difficult for the aquatic fauna to migrate, especially for spawning.

(iii) The reservoirs that are created on the flood. Plains also submerge the existing vegetation and soil leading to its decomposition over time.

(iv) Irrigation has also changed the cropping pattern of many regions with farmers shifting to water intensive and commercial crops. This has great ecological consequences like salinisation of the soil.

Explain the quantitative and qualitative aspects of water scarcity.

Or

Water is available in abundance in India even then scarcity of water is experienced in major parts of the country. Explain with four examples. [CBSE 2008 (D)] 

Ans. (i) Quantitative aspect : This aspect is related to the availability of water resources. The availability of water resources varies over space and time mainly due to variations in seasonal and annual precipitation. However, water scarcity in most cases is caused by over-exploitation, excessive use and unequal access to water among different social groups.

(ii) Qualitative aspect : Now, let us consider another situation where water is sufficiently available to meet the needs of the people, but the area still suffers from water scarcity. This scarcity may be due to bad quality of water. Lately, there has been a growing concern that even if there is ample water to meet the needs of the people, much of it may be polluted by domestic and industrial wastes, chemicals, pesticides and fertilizers used in agriculture, thus, making it hazardous for human use.

Why is there an urgent need to conserve and manage our water resources ? Mention three reasons. [CBSE 2012]

Or

Why is it necessary to conserve water resources in India ? Explain.

Or

Why is it essential to conserve, and manage our water resources ? Explain any three reasons. [CBSE 2012]

Or

Why should we conserve our water resources ? Explain any three reasons. [CBSE 2012,2014]

Ans. (i) Precondition for life : Water is necessary for life on earth. It is believed that life originated in water before it invaded land. Water is in fact a precondition of life.

(ii) Water essential for crops: Cultivation of crops depends on the availability of water. Water dissolves minerals and other nutrients in the ground. The roots of the plants draw this nutritious water for the soil. India is an agricultural country so availability of water is a must.

(iii) Water and industries : Industries need water as coolant, solvent, raw material, etc.

(iv) Water for daily life : Water is also used for drinking and domestic consumption. The growing urbanization with its modern lifestyle has been demanding greater share of water day by day.

(v) Water is an important component of the ecosystem : Conservation of water is also important to prevent degradation of our natural ecosystems.

(vi) Water scarcity : It is essential to conserve and manage water because its overuse and misuse has led to water scarcity.

Examine the importance of the river valley projects in the development of hydel power and irrigational facilities in India.

Or

Give any four objectives of the multipurpose river valley projects. [CBSE Sept. 2011]

Ans. (i) Generation of Power (electricity) :

These multipurpose projects are the main source of power generation. According to the Economic Survey, 2013, these produce more than 39,788.40 MW power. They provide us neat, pollution free and cheapest energy which is the backbone of industry and agriculture.

(ii) Flood Control : These projects control the floods because water can be stored in them. These projects have converted many ‘rivers of sorrows’ into ‘rivers of boon’. For example, the river Kosi.

(iii) Soil Conservation : They help to conserve the soil because they slow down the speed of water.

(iv) Irrigation : These projects are the main source of irrigation for our country. These irrigate the fields during the dry seasons. Many perennial canals have been dug and they irrigate dry areas.

“In recent years, the multipurpose projects and large dams have come under great scrutiny.” Give reasons. [CBSE Sept. 2012]

Or

Mention any four disadvantages of multi purpose projects. [CBSE Sept. 2010, 2013]

Or:

How may the multipurpose river valley projects become harmful for the country ? Explain with four examples. [CBSE 2008]

Or

Why are multipurpose projects facing resistance ? Explain with three reasons. [CB$ESept.2010] 

Ans. (i) Adverse effect on the fertility of the soil : Due to the construction of dams, there are no annual floods in the river. And

Because of this, the soil of the downstream region does not get nutrient rich “silt”. This decreases the fertility of the soil.

(ii) Adverse impact on aquatic life: Due to the construction of dams on the rivers, the fish in the downstream area do not get sufficient nutrient material. Regulating and damming of rivers affect the natural flow of water causing poor sediment flow downward, and excessive sedimentation at the bottom of the reservoir, resulting in rockier stream beds and poorer habitats for the river's aquatic life. Dams also fragment rivers making it difficult for aquatic fauna to migrate for spawning i.e., to produce eggs.

(iii) Displacement of local communities : The building of large dams results in displacement of local communities. The local people often have to give up their land and livelihood and their meager access and control over resources for the greater food of the nation.

(iv) Change in the cropping pattern : The multipurpose projects are responsible for providing assured means of irrigation to farmers. Due to this, most of the farmers have changed the cropping pattern shifting to water intensive and commercial crops. This has led to salinisation of soil leading to ecological imbalance.

Write the features of the ‘tankas’ built in the houses of Bikaner, Phalodi and Banner. [CBSE 2013]

Ans. (i) The tanks could be as large as a big room;

one household in Phalodi had a tank that was 6.1 meters deep, 4.27 meters long and 2.44 meters wide.

(ii) The tankas were part of the well-developed rooftop rainwater harvesting system and were built inside the main house or the courtyard.

(iii) They were connected to the sloping roofs of the houses through a pipe.

(itv) Rain falling on the rooftops would travel down the pipe and was stored in these underground tanks.

(v) The first spell of rain was usually not collected as this would clean the roofs and the pipes. The rainwater from the subsequent showers was then collected

Explain the term ‘tankas’. Where were tanks built in India ? [CBSE 2013]

Ans. (i) The tankas were part of the well-developed rooftop rainwater harvesting system and were built inside the main house or the courtyard. They are built for storing drinking water. A tank could be 6.1 meters deep, 4.27 meters long and 2.44 meters wide.

(ii) The tankas were built in the semi-arid and arid regions of Rajasthan, particularly in Bikaner, Phalodi and Barmer.

 What is bamboo drip irrigation ? Mention any two features of it. [CBSE 2012]

Ans. (1) (i) About 18-20 liters of water enters the bamboo pipe system, gets transported over hundreds of meters and finally reduces to 20-80 drops per minute at the site of the plant.

(ii) Bamboo drip irrigation system is practiced in Meghalaya.

(2) Features of bamboo drip irrigation ;

(i) Bamboo drip irrigation system is a 200 year old system of tapping stream and stripwater by using bamboo pipe.

(ii) Bamboo pipes are used to divert perennial springs on the hilltops to the lower reaches by gravity.

(iii) The channel sections, made of bamboo, divert water to the plant site where it is distributed into branches.

What role do “Guls” or “Kuls” of the Western Himalayas and “Khadins” and “Johads” in parts of Rajasthan play ? Describe. [CBSE 2012]

Ans. (i) In Western Himalayas people build diversion channels like ‘guls’ or ‘kuls’.

(ii) In arid and semi-arid regions, agricultural fields were converted into rain-fed storage structures.

(iii) These allowed the water to stand and moisten the soil like the ‘Khadins’ in Jaisalmer and ‘Johads’ in other parts of Rajasthan.

Need of the hour is to conserve and manage our water resources.” Mention any four reasons. Suggest any two ways to conserve water. [CBSE Sept. 2012] 

Ans. (i) To safeguard ourselves from health hazards.

(ii) To ensure food security.

(iii) To prevent degradation of our natural ecosystem.

(iv) To save the future generations from the water crisis.

Suggestions : –

(i) Turn off the tap while brushing.

(ii) We should spread awareness regarding water conservation.

(iii) Rainwater harvesting.

What is water scarcity? Mention any four factors responsible for water scarcity. [CBSE 2014]

Or

What is meant by water scarcity and give any two causes of water scarcity ?

Ans. Shortage of water as compared to its demand is known as water scarcity.

Factors responsible :

(i) Overexploitation of water sources.

(ii) Improper management.

(iii) Unequal access of water among different social groups.

(iv) Industrialisation et urbanisation.

Explain various problems associated with poor people due to construction of large dams. [CBSE 2013]

Ans. (i) Construction of large dams leads to the large-scale displacement of the local communities.

(ii) Local people have to give up their land and livelihood.

(ii) Pbor people lose meager access and control over resources for the greater good of the nation.

(iv) The displaced people do not get full rehabilitation facilities from the government,

(v) The landless people have to work as laborers in factories or construction sites. Their lives become miserable.

Name any two movements that have been started to oppose multipurpose projects. Who are benefitted from such projects ? [CBSE 2013]

Ans. (1) Two movements that have been started to oppose multipurpose projects are :

(i) Narmada Bachao Andolan was started against the Sardar Sarovar Dam being

built across the Narmada river in Gujarat.

(ii) Tehri Dam Andolan – Resistance to these projects has primarily been due to the large-scale displacement of local communities.

(2) The landowners and large farmers, industrialists and a few urban centers are benefitted from such projects.

Why is rooftop rainwater harvesting important in Rajasthan ? Explain. [CBSE 2013, 14]

Ans. (i) The rainwater stored in tankas is an extremely reliable source of drinking water when all other sources are dried up.

(ii) Rainwater is considered the purest form of natural water.

(iii) Many houses constructed underground rooms adjoining the tanka to beat the summer heat as it would keep the room cool.

(iv) There is a lack of perennial rivers in Rajasthan.

(v) The rainfall is not reliable in this region.