AAfrica, China, India
BAfrica, South America, Middle East
CAsia, South Korea, China
DAfrica, Middle East, South Asia
Answer:
D. Africa, Middle East, South Asia
Read Explanation:
By 2025, the geographic regions most likely to face significant water shortages are:
Africa:
Africa is projected to experience severe water scarcity, particularly in the northern and southern parts of the continent. Countries like Egypt, Sudan, and those in the Horn of Africa are already facing water stress due to low rainfall, over-reliance on groundwater, and growing populations. Climate change and desertification are expected to worsen these challenges, making access to fresh water even more limited.Middle East:
The Middle East, including countries like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, and Yemen, is one of the most water-stressed regions in the world. Many of these countries rely heavily on non-renewable water sources, such as fossil water, and face decreasing freshwater availability due to factors like rapid population growth, low rainfall, and political tensions over shared water resources (e.g., the Nile, Tigris, and Euphrates rivers). The region is expected to suffer from increasing water scarcity, which could exacerbate conflicts and displacement.South Asia:
South Asia, which includes countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal, faces major water challenges. Over-extraction of groundwater for irrigation, the pollution of rivers, and changes in monsoon patterns are contributing to water shortages. The situation is particularly dire in countries like India and Pakistan, where the demand for water for agriculture, industry, and domestic use is far outstripping supply. Rapid urbanization and population growth will only intensify these challenges.
These regions are expected to be at the forefront of water crises by 2025, making it essential for governments and international organizations to prioritize water management, conservation, and infrastructure development to mitigate the impacts of water shortages.