Fig. 1 shows a river catchment shared by three countries. Country A has a large dam in its mountain region, Country B has irrigated farms on the floodplain,...
Question 1 Report
Fig. 1 shows a river catchment shared by three countries. Country A has a large dam in its mountain region, Country B has irrigated farms on the floodplain, and Country C has a delta city with a fishing port. In a dry year, Country A plans to hold back more water for hydroelectric energy. Farmers in Country B fear reduced crop yields, while people in Country C are concerned that lower river flow will allow sea water to move farther upstream. Representatives are meeting to create an international agreement for fair water use.
(a) Identify the country containing the river delta. [1]
(b) Describe one likely impact of reduced river flow on Country B. [1]
(c) Explain two reasons why Country C may experience greater salt-water intrusion. [2]
(d) Explain two features that could make a water-sharing agreement more effective. [2]
(e) Evaluate the claim that Country A should always prioritise renewable energy generation. [2]
Answer Details
(a) The river delta is in Country C. [1]
(b) Reduced river flow means less water for irrigation in Country B, which can lower crop yields and farm income. [1]
(c) If Country A stores more water, less freshwater flows towards the sea. The weaker freshwater flow cannot push seawater back, so seawater can move upstream into the delta and groundwater. [2]
(d) An effective agreement could set an agreed minimum river flow so downstream users receive some water. It could also require countries to share monitoring data. Drought rules and an independent body or regular meetings to settle disputes are other valid features. [2]
(e) Hydroelectricity is low-carbon renewable energy, so it is an important benefit. However, river water is also needed for irrigation, ecosystems and the delta city. Country A's priority should therefore be negotiated rather than always taking precedence. [2]
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