In which situation can service pressure remain low initially despite high growth rate?

Correct answer: Base population is small and service capacity is sufficient

Direct answer: A. A growth rate is a percentage calculated on a starting population, called the base population. A high percentage on a very small base may add only a small number of people at first. For example, growth of 10% on 100 people adds 10 people, while 10% on 10,000 people adds 1,000 people. If schools, clinics, water supply, housing and transport already have sufficient capacity, they may manage the initial increase without immediate severe pressure. A is correct because it combines a small base with adequate service capacity. B is wrong because a large base and weak services can create strong pressure. C is wrong because closing services does not make pressure low; it makes access worse. D is wrong because absent water and housing represent severe shortage, not low pressure. Memory cue: percentage needs a base; also compare demand with capacity.