The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Groundwater is the water present beneath the Earth's surface in soil pore spaces and in the fractures of rock formations. While soil layers act as a natural filter, groundwater remains vulnerable to contamination from surface activities.
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: Groundwater is the primary source for wells and tubewells. It is extensively extracted through these mechanisms to meet domestic, agricultural, and industrial water requirements, particularly in regions lacking sufficient surface water bodies.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Groundwater is susceptible to pollution from surface sanitation issues. Pollutants from septic tanks, pit latrines, and open defecation can leach through the soil profile and contaminate aquifers. This is particularly common in areas with permeable soil or high water tables.
- Statement 3 is Correct: If groundwater becomes contaminated with pathogens (bacteria, viruses, or parasites) from fecal matter or chemical runoff, it acts as a transmission route for water-borne diseases. Common diseases associated with contaminated groundwater include cholera, typhoid, dysentery, and hepatitis.
Key Takeaway: Groundwater is a vital resource extracted via wells but is not immune to pollution; improper surface sanitation can lead to aquifer contamination, resulting in the spread of water-borne diseases.