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    Question

    In the question below, a situation is given, followed

    by statements that may or may not be possible reasons for the situation. Select the option that best describes the reason for the situation in the question. Situation: For the third consecutive year, several major cities in southern India have faced severe water shortages during the summer months. Urban planners note that despite adequate annual rainfall, most cities are unable to store enough water. Environmental groups argue that the problem has worsened because natural lakes and ponds have been encroached upon and urban drainage channels have been blocked by construction debris. Had the traditional water bodies been preserved, the severity of water shortages would have been considerably lower. Possible Reasons: I. Rapid urbanisation has led to large-scale construction over natural water bodies, reducing the region’s capacity to store rainwater. II. A significant fall in average annual rainfall in southern India over the past decade has caused widespread water scarcity. III. Poor urban planning and clogged drainage systems prevent rainwater from reaching reservoirs and groundwater tables.
    A Only I and II Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B Only I and III Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C Only I Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D All I, II and III Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    The situation states that water shortages persist despite adequate rainfall, mainly because cities cannot store water due to encroached lakes and blocked drainage channels. I is a valid reason: Construction over lakes and ponds reduces storage capacity. III is also a valid reason: Blocked drainage prevents rainwater from entering reservoirs or recharging groundwater. II is NOT valid: The passage explicitly says rainfall is adequate, so a fall in rainfall cannot be the reason.

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