Introduction:
The rise of the water table above the ground surface can have several effects on the soil and its properties. It can affect the pore water pressure and total stress within the soil mass. In this case, the correct answer is option 'A', which suggests that there is an equal increase in pore water pressure and total stress.

Explanation:
When the water table rises above the ground surface, it exerts additional pressure on the soil particles and fills the void spaces between them. This increase in water pressure is known as pore water pressure. Simultaneously, the weight of the water also adds to the total stress acting on the soil.

Effects of rising water table:
The rise of the water table can have the following effects on the soil:

1. Increase in Pore Water Pressure:
- As the water table rises, it increases the hydrostatic pressure within the soil pores.
- The water pushes against the soil particles, causing an increase in pore water pressure.
- This increase in pore water pressure can reduce the effective stress within the soil, affecting its strength and stability.

2. Increase in Total Stress:
- The weight of the water above the ground surface adds to the vertical stress acting on the soil.
- This increase in total stress is a result of the additional weight of the water.
- It affects the shear strength and consolidation characteristics of the soil.

Equal increase in pore water pressure and total stress:
Option 'A' suggests that there is an equal increase in pore water pressure and total stress. This means that the rise in the water table causes both the pore water pressure and the total stress to increase by the same magnitude.

- The increase in pore water pressure is due to the additional hydrostatic pressure exerted by the rising water table.
- The increase in total stress is a result of the weight of the water above the ground surface.

Both of these factors contribute to the overall increase in stress within the soil mass.

Conclusion:
When the water table rises above the ground surface, it causes an equal increase in pore water pressure and total stress within the soil. This can have significant implications for the engineering properties and behavior of the soil, including its strength, stability, and consolidation characteristics. Understanding these effects is crucial for designing and constructing structures on or near areas with a high water table.