What is the best natural way to reduce damage caused by runoff in the water cycle?

Correct answer: वृक्षारोपण और घने वन विकसित करना (Planting trees and maintaining dense forests)

Correct answer: B, planting trees and maintaining dense forests. Vegetation intercepts rainfall, and leaves, stems, roots, and forest litter slow the movement of water over the ground. Roots help hold soil together, reduce erosion, and create pathways that can improve infiltration. These effects reduce the speed and volume of harmful runoff and can support groundwater recharge. A is wrong because more concrete makes surfaces less permeable and usually increases rapid runoff. C is harmful and removes natural channels rather than controlling flow. D can release stored water suddenly and increase downstream flooding. Forests cannot prevent every flood, especially during extreme rainfall, but they are a sound natural measure for reducing runoff damage. Memory cue: “roots hold soil and vegetation slows water.”