Why is a river valley project called multipurpose?

Correct answer: Because it helps in irrigation, power, flood control and water supply

The direct answer is D. A multipurpose river valley project is planned to serve several needs at the same time, not merely to construct one structure. The reasoning is: a dam and reservoir can store water; stored water can support irrigation and household or industrial supply; released water can generate hydroelectricity; regulated flow may help reduce some floods; reservoirs may also support fisheries or recreation. Option D is correct because it lists major purposes together. Option A is wrong because one dam is a structure, not the meaning of multipurpose. Option B is wrong because tourism alone is only one possible benefit. Option C is wrong because fishing alone is also only one use. The word “multi” means many, so the presence of several planned functions is the key. These projects can also cause displacement or ecological changes, but that does not alter why they are called multipurpose. Memory cue: many needs, one coordinated project.