Question

(a) What are the aims of watershed management?
(b) Mention the problems caused by the construction of large dams.

Answer 1

(a) A watershed is an area or ridge of land that separates water flowing to different rivers, basins or seas.

The aim of watershed management is to develop primary resources of land and water to produce secondary resources of plants and animals for use in a manner that will not cause ecological imbalance.

(b) Problems due to the construction of big dams are as follows-

a) Environmental problem- One of the major consequences of dam construction is deforestation leading to loss of biodiversity. This ultimately is responsible for disturbing the stability of the natural ecosystem.

b) Social problem- Construction of dams may cause the flooding of nearby towns and villages. A huge population becomes homeless due to this.

c) Economic problem- The construction of dams requires a huge amount of money. It becomes profitable only when electricity production starts.