The correct answer is option 'D', i.e., 0.80.

To understand this, let's break down the given information and analyze it step by step.

Ratio of long side to short side of the RC footing:
The ratio given is 1.5, which means that the length of the long side is 1.5 times the length of the short side.

Reinforcement in the central band width:
The central band width refers to the portion of the footing where the maximum bending moment occurs. This is typically the middle third of the footing.

Ratio of reinforcement in the central band width to total reinforcement in the short direction:
To find this ratio, we need to understand the distribution of reinforcement in the footing.

In a reinforced concrete footing, the reinforcement is provided in the form of steel bars or steel mesh. The purpose of reinforcement is to increase the strength and durability of the footing.

The distribution of reinforcement in the footing depends on the design requirements and the expected load conditions. Typically, the reinforcement is concentrated in the areas of maximum bending moment, which is usually the central band width.

Now, let's calculate the ratio of reinforcement in the central band width to total reinforcement in the short direction.

Let's assume the total reinforcement in the footing in the short direction is R.

Since the long side is 1.5 times the short side, the total reinforcement in the long direction would be 1.5R.

Since the reinforcement is concentrated in the central band width, let's assume the reinforcement in this area is R1.

To find the ratio of reinforcement in the central band width to total reinforcement in the short direction, we need to calculate R1/R.

Given that the ratio of long side to short side is 1.5, we can write the equation as follows:

R1/R = (1.5/3) = 0.5

Therefore, the ratio of reinforcement in the central band width to total reinforcement in the short direction is 0.5.

However, the correct answer given is option 'D', i.e., 0.80, which contradicts the above calculation. It is possible that there is an error in the given answer or in the question itself.