With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made : 1. Rich cities only can ensure sustainable delivery of water. 2. Sustainable delivery of water in cities means much more than supplying water to households. Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Why the answer is (b)
• The passage states that sustainable water delivery requires 'heavy investment' in collection, treatment, distribution, sewerage, and sewage treatment plants.
• Assumption 1 is invalid because the passage links sustainability to 'financing mechanisms' and investment, not specifically to the wealth status of the city; a city can be sustainable if it has the right financing, regardless of being 'rich'.
• Assumption 2 is valid because the passage explicitly includes 'sewerage infrastructure' and 'sewage treatment plants' in the requirements for sustainable delivery.
• Since the scope includes wastewater management and infrastructure beyond just household supply, sustainable delivery means much more than just supplying water to households.
• Therefore, only Assumption 2 is valid, making option (b) the correct answer.
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 only
- Assumption 1 is invalid because the passage attributes sustainability to financing mechanisms and investment, not to the city being 'rich'.
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- Assumption 1 is invalid because the passage does not restrict sustainable delivery to only rich cities, but rather to those with proper financing mechanisms.
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
- Assumption 2 is valid because the passage explicitly includes sewerage and sewage treatment in the definition of sustainable water delivery, which goes beyond household supply.
Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2020, held on 4 October 2020. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.