If an area has low rainfall but dense population, which plan will be a priority?

Correct answer: Water conservation and demand management

Answer: D. Low rainfall means that natural water supply is limited or unreliable, while dense population means that many households, farms, and workplaces need water. The first planning step is therefore to protect available water and use it efficiently. Conservation may include rainwater harvesting, reducing leakage, reusing suitable water, protecting local catchments, and improving storage. Demand management means avoiding waste, prioritizing essential uses, and matching consumption with supply. D is correct because it addresses both sides of the problem: limited supply and high demand. A is unsuitable because rainforest expansion is not a general solution to water scarcity. B would remove essential resources. C focuses mainly on floods, whereas the stated concern is shortage and pressure on supply. Memory cue: scarce water plus many users means save water and manage demand.