With reference to coal- based thermal power plants in India, consider the following statements : 1. None of them uses seawater. 2. None of them is set up in water-stressed district. 3. None of them is privately owned. How many of the above statements are correct?
- A. (a) Only one
- B. (b) Only two
- C. (c) All three
- D. (d) None
Answer: D
Explanation
All three statements are incorrect. Statement 1 is false because several coal-based thermal power plants in India, especially those located on the coast (e.g., Coastal Gujarat Power Limited), use seawater for cooling purposes. Statement 2 is false as many thermal power plants in India are indeed located in water-stressed regions, leading to significant water consumption issues. Statement 3 is also false; India has a mix of both public and privately owned coal-based thermal power plants, with private sector participation increasing over the years. Therefore, none of the given statements are correct. This question tests knowledge about energy infrastructure and environmental concerns, relevant for UPSC Environment and Economy.