QUESTION 15
GS3
15 marks
The world is facing an acute shortage of clean and safe freshwater. What are the alternative technologies which can solve this crisis? Briefly discuss any three such technologies citing their key merits and demerits.
WRITE IN
11 min
250 words
What the examiner wants
Discuss three alternative technologies to address freshwater shortage, with merits and demerits of each.
DiscussExplain the different sides of the issue, use evidence, and finish with a balanced view.
Demand-wise check
- 1Desalination (reverse osmosis): reliable for coasts (Chennai plants); high energy, brine disposal≈65 words
- 2Wastewater recycling and reuse: tertiary treatment for industry and non-potable use; public acceptance, cost≈65 words
- 3Atmospheric water generators / fog harvesting / rainwater harvesting with managed aquifer recharge: decentralised; limited yield, climate-dependent≈65 words
Open in about 30 words and close in about 30.
Answer plan
Crisis in briefTechnology 1Technology 2Technology 3 (each with merits and demerits)Conclusion
Where marks usually go
- Discussing more than three or fewer than three
- Not giving demerits
Draw this
- Three-column table: technology / merits / demerits
Value addition
- ExampleChennai's Minjur and Nemmeli desalination plants supply part of the city's water.Chennai Metrowater
- PolicyNational Framework on Safe Reuse of Treated Water (2022) encourages reuse of treated wastewater.National Mission for Clean Ganga, Ministry of Jal Shakti
Next: plan for one minute, write it in 11 minutes, then get it checked.