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Water is one of the most important natural resources on Earth. We need it for drinking, cooking, farming, cleaning, and many other daily activities. In nature, water is found in many forms, such as rivers, lakes, glaciers, underground sources, and even in the air. Let’s learn about the three major sources of natural water:
1. Surface Water
Surface water refers to water found on the surface of the Earth. This includes Rivers, lakes, streams and ponds. These water bodies collect rainwater and melting snow from the mountains. Rivers often start in hilly or mountainous areas and flow toward seas or oceans. Surface water is one of the easiest to access and is used for drinking (after purification), irrigation, electricity generation, and industrial work.
However, surface water can get polluted easily from factories, waste, and chemicals. That’s why it’s important to keep our rivers and lakes clean.
2. Groundwater
Groundwater is the water found beneath the Earth’s surface. It fills the spaces between rocks and soil. This water is stored in aquifers (layers of rock that hold water) and is accessed through wells, hand pumps, and borewells.
Groundwater is a very important source, especially in areas where there are no rivers or lakes. It is usually cleaner than surface water because it gets filtered naturally as it passes through soil and rocks. People use it for drinking, farming, and in homes.
But too much use of groundwater can cause problems like drying up of wells and land sinking (called land subsidence). So, we must use it wisely.
3. Rainwater
Rainwater is the purest form of natural water. It falls directly from clouds and helps refill rivers, lakes, and underground water. Farmers wait for rain to grow crops, and animals and plants depend on it too.
People also collect rainwater in tanks or by using special systems called rainwater harvesting. This helps in areas where there is a water shortage. Rainwater is free and clean (if collected properly), and it helps reduce the pressure on other water sources.
So, the three major sources of natural water are surface water, groundwater, and rainwater. Each source is important and helps meet our daily needs. As responsible citizens, we must protect these sources and avoid wasting water, so there’s enough for everyone, now and in the future.
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