GEOGRAPHY CT-2 NOTES

What are superdams used for?

They control rivers and provide water for irrigation projects, generate hydro-electric power, and flood control.

What was the first superdam built?

The Hoover Dam in the USA.

Where was the Akosombo Dam built?

On the River Volta in Ghana.

What percentage of Ghana's electricity is produced by the Akosombo Dam?

99%.

What major industry relies on electricity from the Akosombo Dam?

Aluminium smelting industry.

What is a negative effect of the Akosombo Dam on the environment?

Coastal erosion in Ghana and Togo.

What is generated by the Three Gorges Dam?

Hydro-electric power.

What river does the Three Gorges Dam cross?

The Yangtze River.

What major natural disaster did the Three Gorges Dam project aim to prevent?

Flooding.

How many people were affected by flooding on the Yangtze River in July 1995?

100 million people.

What are the four main aims of the Three Gorges Dam project?

Prevent flooding, generate hydro-electric power, provide irrigation, and improve river transport.

What is one social issue caused by the Three Gorges Dam?

Resettlement of 1.5 million people.

What is a concern of conservationists regarding the Three Gorges Dam?

Threat to species like the freshwater dolphin and Chinese sturgeon.

What is appropriate technology as seen in Adgaon?

Small earth dams built with local materials and skills.

Why are small earth dams beneficial?

They are cheap to build, easy to maintain, and help in water conservation.

What ecological benefit do bunds provide?

They slow down runoff and prevent soil erosion.

What percentage of India's electricity comes from hydro-electric power?

28%.

What is the main concern of locals regarding the Narmada project?

Loss of homes and insufficient compensation.

What is one problem associated with salination in irrigated areas?

Rising water tables making soil less fertile.

How much land will the Narmada project flood?

3500 km² of forest and productive farmland.

What is a significant disadvantage of superdam projects?

They can lead to widespread displacement of communities.

What is the main criticism of large-scale development projects like the Narmada?

They prioritize industrial growth often at the expense of local communities.

What impact do superdams have on local fish populations?

Disruption of breeding grounds and habitats.

What alternative to superdams is discussed in the notes?

Small-scale irrigation and energy solutions.

What natural disaster disproportionately affects the Yangtze River area?

Flooding.

What infrastructure does the Narmada project aim to improve?

Water supply for irrigation and flood protection.

What is one reason local communities oppose superdams?

Fear of losing ancestral land and cultural identity.

How has deforestation been linked to dam construction?

It increases the risk of soil erosion and loss of biodiversity.

What is an economic argument in favor of superdams?

They are expected to boost industrial development due to increased power supply.

How does flood control benefit agriculture?

It prevents crop loss and preserves farmland during high water events.

What is one advantage of small-scale hydroelectric power schemes?

They cause less environmental damage than superdams.

Which river does the Akosombo Dam irrigate?

The River Volta.

What is the relationship between large dams and soil fertility?

Irrigation can lead to salination, which degrades soil fertility.

How many hectares of land will be submerged by the Narmada Sagar reservoir?

90,000 hectares.

What is a common issue faced by residents displaced by dams?

Inadequate compensation and relocation support.

What are two local impacts of the Akosombo Dam?

Increased fishing industry and irrigation capabilities.

What alternative methods are used for water conservation in Adgaon?

Earth dams and bunds for rainwater harvesting.

Why is the Narmada project controversial among tribal populations?

It threatens their livelihoods and traditional way of life.

What natural feature of the Yangtze River is at risk due to damming?

The dramatic scenery of the gorges.

In what year was the Akosombo Dam completed?

1964.

What do critics argue about the true beneficiaries of superdam projects?

They often favor wealthy landowners over marginalized communities.

What role do superdams play in climate change discussions?

They are often seen as contributors to environmental degradation.

What flood control measure is a benefit of building dams?

Storing excess water during heavy rains.

What is a negative economic impact of the Three Gorges Dam?

Loss of agricultural productivity due to land submersion.

How can smaller dams help in sustainable development?

By providing localized solutions without large environmental costs.

How do small-scale irrigation solutions benefit local farmers?

They improve water access and soil fertility for cropping.