A municipal administration is implementing a multi-pronged strategy to address severe water stress and seasonal flooding in a rapidly growing metropolitan area. Based on the administrative goals, how should these policy interventions (List I) be correctly matched with their primary intended effects or the causes they mitigate (List II)?
- Implementation of a steeply tiered water pricing system with high tariffs for consumption beyond basic needs.Curbing the disproportionate and frivolous consumption of treated municipal water by high-income residential segments.
- Mandating the integration of rooftop rainwater harvesting structures for all new commercial building approvals.Supplementing urban water availability and reducing the dependence on rapidly depleting deep groundwater aquifers.
- Providing substantial subsidies for the adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation to peri-urban agricultural clusters.Minimizing agricultural groundwater extraction around the city periphery without compromising local food production.
- Executing a pre-monsoon drive for the comprehensive desilting and unclogging of the municipal stormwater drainage network.Addressing the recurring issue of localized waterlogging and traffic paralysis during high-intensity rainfall events.
Answer
Tiered pricing curbs frivolous consumption; mandating rainwater harvesting reduces dependence on groundwater aquifers; subsidizing micro-irrigation minimizes agricultural extraction; and desilting addresses localized waterlogging.
The correct matching logically connects each administrative action to its most direct qualitative effect. Tiered pricing uses economic levers to reduce excess consumption. Rainwater harvesting provides an alternative supply to protect aquifers. Micro-irrigation addresses agricultural efficiency, and desilting physically restores drainage capacity to prevent floods.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Qualitative Cause-and-Effect Problem Solving in Urban Infrastructure