Question

Which of the following is the main cause of water pollution in India?

• A. Industrial waste
• B. Urbanisation
• C. Deforestation
• D. All of these

Hint:

Environmental problems are often complex with multiple interconnected causes. When several plausible causes are listed and an "All of these" option is available, it is often the correct choice.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies, which makes the water unusable for its intended purposes. The question asks for the main causes in the context of India.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Industrial waste: Many industries discharge untreated or poorly treated effluents containing toxic chemicals directly into rivers and lakes.
- Urbanisation: Rapid urbanization leads to the generation of massive amounts of untreated sewage and solid waste, much of which finds its way into water bodies.
- Deforestation: The removal of forests leads to soil erosion. The eroded soil and silt run off into rivers, increasing their turbidity and sediment load, which is a form of pollution.
All three are major contributors to the severe water pollution problem in India. Therefore, the most comprehensive answer is 'All of these'.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Industrial waste, urbanisation, and deforestation are all significant causes of water pollution in India.