Topic: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
4. Hydroelectric power projects apart from meeting the energy needs, offers many more benefits as well as it poses various risks. Examine. Suggest steps to maximise benefits while mitigating risks. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
A meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday approved an investment of ₹4,526.12 crore for the 540-megawatt Kwar hydroelectric project on the Chenab in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about benefits and risks associated with hydroelectric projects and steps needed to mitigate the risks.
Directive word:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by defining hydroelectric energy and give the statistic highlighting extent of it being generated in India.
Body:
First, mention the potential of hydroelectric energy – plenty of rivers, favourable geology, presence of technological expertise, past success etc.
Next, write about the various risks that are associated with hydropower projects – political conflicts, social impact, economic viability and ecological concerns must be written in detail. Substantiate them with examples.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward to remedy the above-mentioned limitations.
