The correct answer is: d) All of the above.
Groundwater depletion due to over-extraction for irrigation is a concern in some parts of Andhra Pradesh, impacting water availability, sustainability, and farming costs.
- Water availability: When groundwater is depleted, there is less water available for drinking, irrigation, and other uses. This can lead to water shortages, which can have a significant impact on people’s lives and livelihoods.
- Sustainability: Groundwater depletion is not sustainable in the long term. If groundwater is used at a rate that is faster than it can be replenished, the aquifer will eventually run dry. This would have a devastating impact on the people and ecosystems that rely on groundwater.
- Farming costs: Groundwater depletion can also lead to higher farming costs. When groundwater is depleted, farmers have to pump water from deeper and deeper wells, which can be expensive. In addition, when groundwater levels drop, the quality of the water can also decline, which can make it less suitable for irrigation.
In conclusion, groundwater depletion due to over-extraction for irrigation is a serious concern in some parts of Andhra Pradesh. It impacts water availability, sustainability, and farming costs. It is important to take steps to address this issue in order to protect the environment and the people who rely on groundwater.