Q3A · Describe in detail citing relevant examples 5 mitigation measures that can be adopted…

Answer

1. Conserve rainfall and restore watersheds. Use suitable rainwater harvesting, contour measures and recharge work. Site-specific geology and maintenance determine whether water can be stored or recharge groundwater effectively.
2. Use water efficiently. Repair leaks, use appropriate irrigation scheduling and adopt efficient systems where suitable. Saving water at one point should be reflected in an overall water budget rather than expansion that cancels the saving.
3. Plan crops and livelihoods. Choose crops and sowing decisions suited to local water availability; diversify income where feasible. This reduces dependence on a single water-intensive crop or season.
4. Monitor shortages and manage demand. Track rainfall deficits, soil moisture, reservoir levels and groundwater. Prioritise drinking water, protect essential services and agree fair allocation before supplies become critical.
5. Prepare community support. Communicate advisories, arrange safe emergency drinking-water supply and fodder, and support vulnerable livelihoods. Emergency relief addresses immediate suffering while long-term measures reduce the next drought’s impacts.