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 ________.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → helps in ensuring sustainable water management
The last paragraph says rainwater harvesting offers a sustainable solution and that by integrating this ancient practice into modern urban planning we can secure water for future generations while preserving the environment. A plan that keeps water available for the future without harming nature is sustainable water management.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: delays modern infrastructure development — Incorrect. Not mentioned: the passage speaks of fitting rainwater harvesting into modern urban planning; nothing says it slows building work down.
Option 2: increases municipal water supply costs — Incorrect. Contradicted: the passage says it reduces dependence on municipal water supplies and is cost-effective.
Option 3: disrupts traditional water conservation methods — Incorrect. Contradicted: rainwater harvesting is itself called an ancient practice and part of Indian culture for centuries; bringing it into urban planning keeps a traditional method alive.