Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question

Although water is renewed through the hydrological cycle, many regions face water scarcity due to the following reasons:

1. Over-exploitation and excessive use: Growing population demands more water for domestic use, agriculture, and industries, leading to overuse of surface and groundwater.
2. Unequal access: Water is not equally distributed among different social groups, leaving many without adequate supply.
3. Industrialisation and urbanisation: Industries are heavy users of freshwater and also require hydroelectric power, adding pressure on water resources.
4. Water pollution: Domestic and industrial wastes, pesticides, and fertilisers pollute available water, making it hazardous and unusable despite being physically present.

Thus, water scarcity is not just about low rainfall but also about mismanagement, overuse, and pollution.

Source: Water Resources, Chapter 3, Section — Water Scarcity and the Need for Water Conservation and Management

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Examiners look for four distinct causes beyond just "low rainfall." The key insight the passage stresses is that water scarcity can occur even where water is abundant — due to large population demands, industrial pressure, unequal access, and pollution. Mentioning all four earns full marks. Avoid vague statements; use terms like over-exploitation, unequal access, and pollution precisely as the textbook does.