Question

Explain in brief the challenges caused due to construction of large dams.

Answer 1

The challenges caused due to construction of large dams:

The problems can be categorized into three categories

Social Problems:

1. The construction of high-rise dams results in a vast area of land submerged underwater.
2. The people create a displacement of a large number of peasants and tribals without adequate compensation or rehabilitation.
3. The other social problems are generated due to mismanagement by the officials.
4. It has been observed that the people close to the source grow water-intensive crops like sugarcane and rice whereas people farther downstream do not get sufficient water to grow these crops.
5. This also causes social problems resulting due to unequal distribution of water.

Economic Problems:

The construction of a high-rise dam is an expensive project that involves the spending of a huge amount of public money.

Environmental Problems:

1. The construction of high-rise dams causes several problems including deforestation, loss of biodiversity and displacement of poor tribals.
2. The large reservoirs of water formed by the dams destroy plants and animals in the area which get submerged underwater.
3. A large number of poor tribals get displaced as their lands are submerged underwater.