Test: Water Resources - 4 - UPSC MCQ

India is estimated to receive nearly 4 % of global precipitation and the country ranks 133 in terms of this. It differs from one country to another, like England will be 4-5% also. There has some global precipitation satellite which is called GPM also use to measure this thing.

Rajasthan is facing a severe water crisis, with a decadal average study has inferring that there has been a decline in groundwater by 62.70% in the state with only 37.20% rise.

Water shortages may be caused by climate change, such as altered weather patterns including droughts or floods, increased pollution, and increased human demand and overuse of water. A water crisis is a situation where the available potable, unpolluted water within a region is less than that region's demand.

The contribution of hydroelectric power to the total electricity produced in India:
- Hydroelectric power is the correct answer that contributes approximately 22 per cent of the total electricity produced in India today.
- Hydroelectric power refers to the generation of electricity from the movement of water.
- India has numerous rivers and water bodies that are suitable for the development of hydroelectric power plants.
- These power plants harness the energy of flowing or falling water to generate electricity.
- Hydroelectric power is a renewable and clean source of energy, as it does not produce greenhouse gas emissions during generation.
- The large-scale hydroelectric projects in India include the Bhakra Nangal Dam, Tehri Dam, and Sardar Sarovar Dam, among others.
- These projects have significantly contributed to India's electricity generation capacity and have helped in meeting the country's energy demands.
- The 22 per cent contribution of hydroelectric power to India's total electricity generation highlights its importance in the country's energy mix.
- It is worth noting that India has been diversifying its energy sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable energy options.
- While hydroelectric power plays a significant role, other sources such as solar power, wind power, and thermal power also contribute to India's electricity generation.
- However, hydroelectric power remains one of the major contributors, especially due to the abundance of water resources in the country.

Water pollution can lead to various problems, and one of the significant issues it causes is water-borne diseases. Here is a detailed explanation of how water pollution contributes to the spread of water-borne diseases:
Sedimentation of water bodies:
- Sedimentation occurs when pollutants, such as silt and debris, enter the water bodies, leading to the accumulation of sediments.
- This reduces the water quality, making it turbid and inhospitable for aquatic life.
Discharge of industrial waste:
- Industries often release untreated or poorly treated wastewater into water bodies, contaminating them with harmful chemicals and toxins.
- These pollutants can have adverse effects on human health when consumed or used for daily activities.
Water-borne diseases:
- Water pollution creates an ideal environment for the growth and spread of disease-causing microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
- Contaminated water can enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation, or contact with the skin, leading to various water-borne diseases.
- Common water-borne diseases include cholera, dysentery, typhoid, hepatitis, and giardiasis.
Spawning of aquatic life:
- Water pollution can disrupt the natural habitat and reproductive cycles of aquatic life, affecting their ability to spawn and reproduce.
- This can lead to a decline in fish populations and ecological imbalances within the aquatic ecosystem.
In conclusion, water pollution poses a significant threat to human health by contributing to the spread of water-borne diseases. It also has detrimental effects on the environment, including the sedimentation of water bodies and disruption of aquatic life. Therefore, it is crucial to address water pollution through proper waste management, treatment of industrial effluents, and promotion of clean and safe water practices.

Hydraulic Structures in Ancient Times
Introduction:
In ancient times, various hydraulic structures were built to manage water resources and facilitate irrigation. However, not all structures were present during that period. Let's explore the given options and determine which one is not a feature of ancient times.
A: Multipurpose river valley projects
- Multipurpose river valley projects involve the construction of dams, reservoirs, and canals for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control.
- These projects were not prevalent in ancient times as they require advanced engineering techniques and technological advancements.
B: Dams built of stone rubble
- Dams built of stone rubble were commonly used in ancient times.
- These dams were constructed by stacking stones and rubble in a specific manner to create a barrier for water.
C: Reservoirs or lakes
- Reservoirs or lakes were present in ancient times.
- These were created by constructing dams to store water for irrigation purposes.
D: Embankments and canals
- Embankments and canals were extensively used in ancient times for irrigation and transportation purposes.
- Canals were constructed to divert water from rivers to agricultural fields.
Conclusion:
Out of the given options, the hydraulic structure that is not a feature of ancient times is Multipurpose river valley projects (Option A). These projects are a result of modern engineering advancements and were not present during ancient times.

Answer:
The correct answer is C: Bhopal Lake.
Explanation:
Bhopal Lake, also known as Bhojtal, is one of the largest artificial lakes of ancient India. It was built in the 11th century during the reign of Raja Bhoj, the legendary king of Malwa. The lake was created by constructing an earthen dam across the Kolans River, and it covers an area of about 31 square kilometers.
Here are some key points about Bhopal Lake:
- Construction: The lake was built by Raja Bhoj to solve the water scarcity problem in the region. It was designed to capture and store rainwater for irrigation and drinking purposes.
- Size: Bhopal Lake is a massive water body, with a shoreline stretching over 33 kilometers. It is one of the largest man-made lakes in India.
- Importance: The lake has played a significant role in the development and growth of Bhopal city. It has been a major source of water supply for the city and has helped in sustaining agriculture in the surrounding areas.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Bhopal Lake and its surrounding landscape have been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical and cultural significance.
In conclusion, Bhopal Lake stands as one of the largest artificial lakes of ancient India, constructed during the 11th century by Raja Bhoj. It continues to be a vital water source for the region and holds great historical and cultural value.

Hydraulic Structure Constructed by Iltutmish for Supplying Water to Siri Fort Area:

• Tank in Hauz Khas, Delhi: Iltutmish, the Sultan of Delhi, constructed a tank in Hauz Khas in the 14th century to supply water to the Siri Fort area.


• Water harvesting at Sringaverapura near Allahabad: This hydraulic structure is unrelated to Iltutmish and the Siri Fort area.


• Bhopal Lake: Bhopal Lake is not associated with Iltutmish or the Siri Fort area.


• Irrigation work at Nagarjunakonda: This irrigation work is not connected to Iltutmish or the Siri Fort area.

Therefore, the correct answer is C: Tank in Hauz Khas, Delhi.

An example of a hydraulic structure would be a dam, which slows the normal flow rate of the river in order to power turbines. A hydraulic structure can be built in rivers, a sea, or any body of water where there is a need for a change in the natural flow of water.

The oldest water-harvesting system in India can be found in Sringaverapura near Allahabad. Here is a detailed explanation:
Sringaverapura near Allahabad:
- Sringaverapura, also known as the 'City of Springs,' is located near Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh, India.
- It is home to one of the oldest water-harvesting systems in the country.
- The water-harvesting system in Sringaverapura consists of several ancient stepwells and underground channels.
- These stepwells were built to collect rainwater and store it for later use.
- The underground channels were designed to channelize the collected water to different parts of the city.
- The water-harvesting system in Sringaverapura is believed to have been constructed during the Gupta period (4th to 6th century AD).
- It showcases the advanced engineering skills and knowledge of ancient Indians in managing water resources.
- The system not only provided water for the residents but also helped in maintaining the groundwater levels in the area.
- Today, Sringaverapura's water-harvesting system stands as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Indian civilizations in water management.
In summary, the oldest water-harvesting system in India can be found in Sringaverapura near Allahabad, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of ancient Indians in managing water resources.

Traditionally dams were built to impound rivers and rainwater that could be used later to irrigate the agricultural fields.

Satluj-Beas River Basin Multipurpose Projects:
The multipurpose project that is found in the Satluj-Beas river basin is the Bhakra Nangal Project.
Here are some key details about the Bhakra Nangal Project:
- Location: The Bhakra Nangal Project is located in the Satluj River basin in the northern Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab.
- Purpose: It is a multipurpose project built for various purposes including irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control.
- Dams: The project consists of two main dams, the Bhakra Dam on the Satluj River and the Nangal Dam on the Beas River.
- Bhakra Dam: The Bhakra Dam is one of the highest gravity dams in the world. It provides irrigation water to the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
- Nangal Dam: The Nangal Dam diverts water from the Beas River to the Bhakra Dam. It also serves as a storage reservoir for flood control.
- Hydroelectric Power: The project has a significant hydroelectric power generation capacity. It provides electricity to various states in northern India.
- Benefits: The Bhakra Nangal Project has played a crucial role in the development of agriculture, industry, and power generation in the region. It has helped in increasing irrigation facilities, ensuring water supply, and reducing the impact of floods.
Thus, the Bhakra Nangal Project is the multipurpose project found in the Satluj-Beas river basin.

Introduction:
The Hirakud Dam is a major dam located in the state of Odisha, India. It is built on the Mahanadi River, one of the longest rivers in India. The construction of the dam began in 1948 and was completed in 1957. It serves multiple purposes such as irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control.
Explanation:
The Hirakud Dam is constructed on the Mahanadi River.
Key Points:
- The Hirakud Dam is one of the longest dams in the world, spanning a length of about 25.8 kilometers.
- It was built to control and harness the waters of the Mahanadi River for various purposes.
- The dam provides irrigation water to several districts in Odisha, helping in agricultural activities and increasing productivity.
- It also generates hydroelectric power, with several powerhouses located along the dam.
- The dam has a capacity of around 5,800 million cubic meters of water, which helps in flood control during heavy rainfall and cyclonic conditions.
- The reservoir created by the dam is known as Hirakud Reservoir and is the largest artificial lake in Asia.
- The dam has played a significant role in improving the socio-economic conditions of the region by providing water and electricity.
Conclusion:
The Hirakud Dam is constructed on the Mahanadi River in Odisha, India. It serves multiple purposes like irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control.

Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) is a social movement consisting of adivasis, farmers, environmentalists and human rights activists against a number of large dams being built across the Narmada River, which flows through the states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, all in India. It is against the loss of green cover around due to the project.

Agitation of Farmers in Areas with Higher Priority Given to Urban Water Supply:
The farmers in the following areas were agitated when higher priority was given to water supply in urban areas, particularly during drought:
1. Krishna-Godavari basin:
- No mention of farmers' agitation in this area when higher priority was given to urban water supply during drought.
2. Koyna basin, Maharashtra:
- No mention of farmers' agitation in this area when higher priority was given to urban water supply during drought.
3. Sabarmati basin, Gujarat:
- Farmers in the Sabarmati basin, Gujarat were agitated when higher priority was given to water supply in urban areas during drought.
- This led to protests and demands for equitable distribution of water resources between urban and rural areas.
4. Rihand basin, Uttar Pradesh:
- No mention of farmers' agitation in this area when higher priority was given to urban water supply during drought.
Conclusion:
The farmers in the Sabarmati basin, Gujarat were agitated when higher priority was given to water supply in urban areas, particularly during drought.

Answer:
The correct answer is A: Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The Krishna-Godavari dispute refers to the ongoing water-sharing dispute between the states of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Here is a detailed explanation:
Background:
- The Krishna River and Godavari River are two major rivers in South India.
- These rivers flow through multiple states, leading to conflicts over water-sharing.
- The Krishna-Godavari dispute specifically refers to the sharing of Krishna River water between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
Details:
- Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh have been engaged in a long-standing dispute over the sharing of Krishna River water.
- Both states claim their rights to a fair share of the river water for irrigation, drinking water, and other purposes.
- The dispute has led to legal battles, with both states filing petitions in the courts seeking a resolution.
- The Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal (KWDT) was constituted in 1969 to resolve the dispute, but a final resolution has not been reached yet.
- The issue is complex, involving factors such as rainfall patterns, agricultural needs, and population growth in the respective states.
Conclusion:
The Krishna-Godavari dispute involves the state governments of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The dispute highlights the challenges of water-sharing between states and the need for effective management and resolution mechanisms.

River Dam Locations:
The Tilaiya, Panchet, Maithon, Konar, and Bokaro dams are located on the R. Damodar.
Explanation:
The R. Damodar, also known as the Damodar River, is a prominent river in eastern India. It flows through the states of Jharkhand and West Bengal. The dams mentioned in the question are located on this river. Here is a detailed explanation of each dam:
1. Tilaiya Dam: Located in Jharkhand, it is a multipurpose dam constructed on the Damodar River. It has a reservoir capacity of 3,000 million cubic meters.
2. Panchet Dam: Also situated in Jharkhand, it is a multipurpose dam built on the Damodar River. It serves the purpose of irrigation, hydropower generation, and flood control.
3. Maithon Dam: Located in Jharkhand, it is a multipurpose dam on the Damodar River. It provides water for irrigation and also generates hydroelectric power.
4. Konar Dam: Situated in Jharkhand, it is a dam on the Damodar River. It primarily serves the purpose of irrigation.
5. Bokaro Dam: Also located in Jharkhand, it is a dam constructed on the Damodar River. It provides water for irrigation and also supplies drinking water to the nearby areas.
In conclusion, the Tilaiya, Panchet, Maithon, Konar, and Bokaro dams are all located on the R. Damodar in the eastern part of India.

Answer:
The river projects that provide hydroelectricity to the industries of Maharashtra are the Pravara Project and Koyna Project.
Pravara Project:
- Located in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra.
- It harnesses the water of the Pravara River.
- Provides hydroelectric power to industries in the region.
Koyna Project:
- Located in Satara district of Maharashtra.
- Utilizes the water of the Koyna River.
- One of the largest hydroelectric projects in India.
- Supplies electricity to various industries in Maharashtra.
These two river projects play a crucial role in meeting the power requirements of industries in Maharashtra. The Pravara Project and Koyna Project contribute significantly to the state's hydroelectric power generation and help in promoting industrial growth and development.

The dams that are part of the Chambal Project are:

• Rana Pratap Sagar Dam: Located in Rajasthan, it is the main dam of the Chambal Project. It is a concrete gravity dam built on the Chambal River.


• Gandhi Sagar Dam: Also located in Rajasthan, it is the second major dam of the Chambal Project. It is a masonry gravity dam built on the Chambal River.

The following dams are not part of the Chambal Project:

• Maithon Dam: Located in Jharkhand, it is not part of the Chambal Project.


• Panchet Dam: Located in Jharkhand, it is not part of the Chambal Project.


• Tilaiya Dam: Located in Jharkhand, it is not part of the Chambal Project.


• Konar Dam: Located in Jharkhand, it is not part of the Chambal Project.


• Bokaro Dam: Located in Jharkhand, it is not part of the Chambal Project.


• Pravara Dam: Located in Maharashtra, it is not part of the Chambal Project.


• Ramagundam Dam: Located in Telangana, it is not part of the Chambal Project.


• Sardar Sarovar Dam: Located in Gujarat, it is not part of the Chambal Project.

Therefore, the correct answer is option C: Rana Pratap Sagar Dam and Gandhi Sagar Dam.

The construction of big dams destroys the natural surroundings and biodiversity of area.If large dams are constructed at the place where tectonic plates meet, it can induce earthquakes.