Question

A dam that will be used for drinking water and power production that will supply few cities is to be constructed. a small city is situated upstream and the population have to abandon their lands prior to the construction. Explain how cost/benefice approach can be used to make a decision.

Answer 1

When considering whether to construct a dam that will impact the livelihoods of a small upstream city, a cost/benefit approach can be useful to make a decision. First, the potential benefits of the dam, such as providing drinking water and power production for multiple cities, should be weighed against the costs, such as the displacement of the residents of the small upstream city and the potential environmental impacts.

To accurately assess the costs, potential consequences, and mitigation measures should be considered. For example, the loss of the small upstream city's homes could lead to economic hardships and relocation expenses. Mitigation measures such as providing new homes or job opportunities in the construction of the dam may need to be considered. Additionally, environmental impacts such as habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity should be analyzed and evaluated against the benefits of the dam.

When making a decision, the cost/benefit analysis should consider all stakeholders involved, including the small upstream city, affected ecosystems, and the cities that will benefit from the dam. The decision-makers should weigh the pros and cons of the project in light of all available information, and choose an option that is most beneficial for all parties involved.

Step-by-step explanation: