In Terms of Reference (ToR) for Environmental Impact Assessment of building construction and township and area development projects, which of the following is/are the theme(s) of assessing the impact on ‘Water Environment’? (i). Impact of water withdrawal on surface water (ii). Impact on ground water potential (iii). Wastewater generation
- AOnly (i)
- B(i) and (ii)
- C(ii) and (iii)
- D(i), (ii) and (iii)Correct
Solution
Concept
Water environment assessment in EIA covers water source, ground water and wastewater.
Step-by-step solution
1. Water environment theme in ToR looks at water use and water pollution. 2. (i) Water withdrawal affects surface water sources, so it is included. 3. (ii) Ground water extraction and recharge affect ground water potential, so it is included. 4. (iii) Wastewater generation and its disposal affect water quality, so it is included. 5. All three are included, so the answer is (i), (ii) and (iii).
Explanation
The water environment part of the ToR checks how the project takes water and how it releases water. It covers surface water, ground water and wastewater. So all three themes are part of it.
Why the other options are wrong
A: Leaves out ground water and wastewater. B: Leaves out wastewater. C: Leaves out surface water withdrawal.
Shortcut
Water environment = source (surface + ground) + waste (wastewater). Pick all.
Common mistake
Thinking wastewater belongs only to pollution or sanitation and not to the water environment.
Correct answer: D) (i), (ii) and (iii)