Multiple choice questions.
Based on the information given below classify each of the situations as ‘suffering from water scarcity’ or ‘not suffering from water scarcity’.
(a) Region with high annual rainfall.
(b) Region having high annual rainfall and large population.
(c) Region having high annual rainfall but water is highly polluted.
(d) Region having low rainfall and low population.
Answer:
(a) Region with high annual rainfall → Not suffering from water scarcity ✅
(b) Region having high annual rainfall and large population → Suffering from water scarcity ❌
(High population increases water demand, leading to possible scarcity)
(c) Region having high annual rainfall but water is highly polluted → Suffering from water scarcity ❌
(Water pollution makes water unfit for use, causing scarcity)
(d) Region having low rainfall and low population → Not suffering from water scarcity ✅
(Low population means less water demand, balancing availability)
Explanation:
Water scarcity is not only determined by the amount of rainfall but also by population demand, pollution, and water management. Let’s analyze each case:
(a) Region with high annual rainfall → Not suffering from water scarcity ✅
- If a region receives adequate rainfall, it generally has enough water to meet the needs of its people.
- Water resources will be naturally replenished, preventing scarcity.
(b) Region having high annual rainfall and large population → Suffering from water scarcity ❌
- Even though there is high rainfall, a very large population means high water demand.
- If demand exceeds supply due to overuse or poor management, water scarcity can occur.
- Example: Many densely populated cities with good rainfall still face water shortages due to overconsumption.
(c) Region having high annual rainfall but water is highly polluted → Suffering from water scarcity ❌
- Even with plenty of rainfall, if water is polluted, it becomes unusable for drinking, agriculture, or industry.
- Pollution causes functional scarcity—the water is present but not safe for use.
- Example: Many industrial areas suffer from water pollution despite good rainfall.
(d) Region having low rainfall and low population → Not suffering from water scarcity ✅
- Although rainfall is low, a small population means less water demand.
- If water usage is balanced with availability, the region may not face scarcity.
- Example: Some desert communities manage their water efficiently and do not suffer from scarcity.
Conclusion:
Water scarcity depends on both supply and demand.
- High rainfall alone does not guarantee water security if demand is too high or water is polluted.
- Even low rainfall areas can avoid scarcity if water demand is low and managed properly.