Demand for and supply of water and issues of water quality

Question 1

What factors affect the demand for water?

Answer 1

Population growth
Urbanization
Agriculture
Industrialization
Rising living standards

Question 2

What factors influence the supply of water?

Answer 2

Precipitation patterns and droughts
Distance to rivers, lakes, and aquifers.
Availability of water transport
Ability to clean water

Question 3

What are the main issues related to water quality?

Answer 3

Pollution from industrial waste, sewage, and agricultural runoff.
Diseases from contaminated waters
Toxic substances from industries.

Question 4

What are the consequences of poor water quality?

Answer 4

Waterborne diseases and long-term toxic effects.
Loss of aquatic biodiversity
Higher treatment costs and loss of productivity.
Water shortages can lead to conflicts.

Question 5

What are the solutions to water quality issues?

Answer 5

Wastewater treatment
Regulations
Use of eco-friendly fertilizers and practices.
Education about protecting water sources.
Improve filtration and desalination methods.

Question 6

Provide a case study of water demand and supply challenges

Answer 6

India:
High demand due to population growth and agriculture.
Seasonal rainfall leads to uneven water distribution.
Issues include groundwater depletion and polluted rivers like the Ganges.
Solutions: Rainwater harvesting, efficient irrigation, and government programs like “Namami Gange.”

Question 7

What is sustainable water management?

Answer 7

Using water resources efficiently to meet current needs without compromising future availability.
Includes practices like recycling water, rainwater harvesting, and reducing wastage.