Read the given passage and answer the four questions that follow: -

Rainwater harvesting is an innovative method to conserve water by collecting and storing rainwater for future use. This practice has been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. It is a simple, eco-friendly technique to address the growing water crisis caused by over extraction of groundwater, climate change, and increasing demand for freshwater resources.

The process involves collecting rainwater from rooftops, roads or open spaces and directing it to storage tanks or underground reservoirs. This water can be used for domestic purposes like drinking, cooking and gardening as well as for recharging groundwater. Several states have made rainwater harvesting mandatory for buildings, significantly improving water availability and management.

One major advantage of rainwater harvesting is that it reduces dependence on municipal water supplies, particularly during droughts. It also helps prevent flooding and soil erosion by capturing rainwater before it runs off into rivers or drains. Moreover, it is cost-effective, environmentally sustainable, and relatively easy to implement even on a small scale.

However, challenges such as lack of awareness, poor maintenance and improper design of harvesting systems hinder its widespread adoption. With proper education, public participation and government support, rainwater harvesting can play a crucial role in water management.

As the world faces increasing scarcity of water resources, rainwater harvesting offers a sustainable solution. By integrating this ancient practice into modern urban planning, we can secure water for future generations while preserving our environment and ecosystems.

Incorporating rainwater harvesting into urban planning ________.

helps in ensuring sustainable water management

The correct answer is Option (4) → helps in ensuring sustainable water management

Explanation:
The passage concludes by emphasizing that:

“By integrating this ancient practice into modern urban planning, we can secure water for future generations while preserving our environment and ecosystems.”

This clearly means that incorporating rainwater harvesting into urban planning aids in sustainable water management.

Other options are incorrect:

• Delays modern infrastructure development – Not mentioned in the passage.

• Increases municipal water supply costs – In fact, it reduces dependence on municipal supply.

• Disrupts traditional water conservation methods – The passage says it is an ancient practice being integrated, not disrupted.