Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution
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Correct Answer: Option (D) — Thermal power
Concept & Option Breakdown
Standard Reference VerifiedThermal power plants are by far the largest industrial consumers of water in India, accounting for over 70-80% of total industrial water withdrawal, primarily required for steam cycle condensation, cooling towers, and ash disposal systems. Engineering, pulp and paper, and textiles consume significantly less in aggregate.
Thermal power plants require vast quantities of cooling water to condense steam, making them the leading industrial water consumer.
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