Which of the following does not deplete the water table at a place ?

Question

Accepted Answer

Option 2, "Increasing snowfall," is the correct answer because it does not deplete the water table at a place. In fact, increasing snowfall can contribute positively to the water table. When snow melts, it releases water that can seep into the ground, replenishing groundwater levels and thus supporting the water table. This process is a natural part of the hydrological cycle and can help maintain or even increase the water table, rather than deplete it.

Now, let's examine why the other options are incorrect:

1. **Scanty rainfall**: This option is incorrect because scanty rainfall means there is less water available to infiltrate the ground and recharge the groundwater. Without sufficient rainfall, the water table can drop as the groundwater is used up without being adequately replenished.

3. **Increasing number of tube-wells**: This option is incorrect because an increasing number of tube-wells leads to more groundwater being extracted for various uses, such as agriculture and domestic consumption. This increased extraction can lower the water table, especially if the rate of extraction exceeds the rate of natural replenishment.

4. **Increasing deforestation**: This option is incorrect because deforestation can lead to reduced infiltration of rainwater into the soil. Trees and vegetation play a crucial role in maintaining the water cycle by facilitating the infiltration of rainwater into the ground. When trees are removed, the soil can become compacted, and runoff increases, reducing the amount of water that seeps into the ground to recharge the water table.

In summary, increasing snowfall contributes to the replenishment of the water table, while the other options lead to its depletion.