Energy and Power Resources — Question 7

Advantages of multipurpose projects are:

1. Generation of hydroelectric power and thereby encourage the development of industries in the country.
2. Provision of irrigation where the rainfall is scanty.
3. Control of floods in the rivers.
4. Development of river navigation.
5. Afforestation for soil conservation.

Disadvantages of multipurpose projects:

1. Cost of building dams is very high.
2. Building large dams can cause serious geological damage like triggering earthquake in the area.
3. Dams alter the natural water table and have adverse impact on aquatic life.
4. Setting up of multipurpose projects displaces many people from the area causing them hardships.