(a) "In the mountainous regions, mini-hydel plants prove to be cost effective as well as eco-friendly." Justify above statement with valid arguments. (b) Define Carrying Capacity.

Question

Accepted Answer

(a) **Mini-Hydel Plants in Mountainous Regions:**

**Justification:**

1. **Cost-Effective:** Use perpetual streams available in mountains, reducing infrastructure costs.

2. **Eco-Friendly:** Generate electricity without environmental pollution or greenhouse gas emissions.

3. **Local Demand:** Generate enough power to meet local demands without long-distance transmission.

4. **No Large Infrastructure:** Don't require large-scale transmission towers and cables.

5. **Sustainable:** Renewable energy source that doesn't deplete natural resources.

(b) **Carrying Capacity:**
- Maximum population size that environment can sustain indefinitely
- Amount of resources available to support a population
- Level of activity that environment can absorb without degradation
- Important for planning sustainable development