Question

Consider the indigenous systems for water management in deserts. Which statement is accurate?

1. The qanat system involves transporting water through underground tunnels.
2. Qanats are common in North America.
3. Water is transported uphill by gravity in a qanat.
4. The system ensures equitable distribution and sustainable use through community management.

• A. 2, 3
• B. 1, 4
• C. 2, 4
• D. 1 only

Answer 1

Answer:

B. 1, 4

• In certain geological formations, water is available from artesian wells

• Communities living in deserts have devised various innovative means of obtaining a per-manent supply of water.

• The qanat or kariz is an example of an indig-enous system of transporting water common in South West Asia, especially Iran

• In this system water is transported by gravity through underground tunnels from alluvial aquifers to an agricultural settlement.

• The water thus brought to the villages is shared through a system of community management which ensures that the distribution is equitable and its use is sustainable.