State some economic benefits of rivers and lakes.

Answer

Role of Rivers in the Economy:

(i)Rivers have been of fundamental importance throughout the human history. The areas along the banks of rivers have witnessed great cultural and economic progress since ancient times.

(ii)Water from the rivers is a basic natural resource, essential for human, agricultural and industrial activities.

(iii)Rivers and their associated alluvial soils provide the most productive agricultural lands of the country.

(iv)Their valleys contain dense and concentrated settlements. Most of the large cities are located on rivers. Not only do rivers provide us with essential water supplies, but they also receive, dilute and transport wastes from settlements.

(v)Rivers provide primary channels of inland transportation, not only directly in the form of navigable waterways, but also indirectly through their valleys, where roads, railways lines and other routes are built.

Importance of the Lakes:

(i)A lake helps to regulate the flow of a river. During heavy rainfall, it prevents flooding and during the dry season, it helps to maintain an even flow of water.

(ii)Lakes are used for developing hydel power.

(iii)Lakes are a valuable source of water.

(iv)They moderate the climate of the surrounding, maintain the aquatic ecosystem, enhance natural beauty, help develop tourism and provide recreation.