The benefits of rainwater harvesting are:

(A) Decreases the community dependence on groundwater for domestic use.
(B) It can also save energy to pump groundwater as recharge leads to a rise in the groundwater table.
(C) Rainwater harvesting results into salinisation of soils.
(D) Urban areas can especially benefit from rainwater harvesting.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A), (B) and (D) only

The correct answer is Option (1) → (A), (B) and (D) only

(A) Decreases the community dependence on groundwater for domestic use. Correct. Rainwater harvesting provides an alternative water source, reducing pressure on groundwater and preventing over-extraction.

(B) It can also save energy to pump groundwater as recharge leads to a rise in the groundwater table. Correct. When rainwater is harvested and allowed to recharge aquifers, the water table rises, meaning less depth for pumping and thus less energy consumption.

(C) Rainwater harvesting results into salinisation of soils. Incorrect. Rainwater harvesting is actually a sustainable practice that prevents soil erosion and supports recharge. It does not cause salinisation; instead, salinisation is usually caused by over-irrigation, poor drainage, or use of saline water.

(D) Urban areas can especially benefit from rainwater harvesting. Correct. In cities, rainwater harvesting helps reduce water scarcity, urban flooding, and pressure on municipal water supply, making it especially beneficial in urban areas.