Microeconomics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Microeconomics - Essay Example It is well known that when there is a draught there will be water shortage, and when there is water shortage there will be spells of draught. The effects of draught can be linked with meteorological, hydrological, or agricultural aspects and it is a major influence on the social and economic activities of a given region. The role of water in natural calamities is paramount. Heavy downpours cause flood, and scarcity of rain lead to drought. Continued spells of draught results in shortage of water in the region. These two phenomena are beyond human control and their aftermaths have long lasting effects on the economy of a nation. Drought can be attributed to proximity to equator, geographic position, and the lack of greenbelt in a region. When a nation is dependent on agriculture for their economic growth, unexpected seasonal changes hamper their future prospects. During drought there is scarcity of water and continuous heat wave, which damages crop and livestock. Deforestation and reduced greenbelt are also conducive to drought and desertification. Thus, shortage of water can be construed as the one of the major reasons fo r drought. Water is the most abundant natural resource. Yet, the planet is running out of freshwater sources. The rapid increase in world population and recurrence of drought further aggravate the situation. It is estimated that by 2025 two-thirds of world’s population could live in countries with severe water shortage. (Icenhower, June 2006). Though drought is an imminent danger, people tend to consider it as a normal part of the climatic condition. With expanding deserts, deforestation, and growing droughts, compounded with increasing demand of freshwater for human consumption, everyone should be concerned about the potential worldwide calamity caused by diminishing water supply. Due to the random nature of its