Statement–Argument — Should there be a restriction on constructing high-rise buildings in India’s big cities? Arguments: I) No; large Indian cities lack adequate open land to house a growing population, so vertical growth is essential. II) Yes; only builders and developers benefit from high-rises. III) Yes; government should first strengthen infrastructure for existing buildings before permitting new high-rises. Choose the strong argument(s).

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: I and III are strong

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Urban planning must balance density, liveability, and infrastructure capacity. Building higher is a common response to land scarcity, but unchecked vertical growth can strain water, sewage, transport, and emergency services. We assess which arguments are policy-relevant and sufficiently reasoned.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Big cities face rising population and limited open land.
  • Infrastructure (roads, transit, utilities) may already be at or beyond capacity in many areas.
  • High-rises concentrate demand vertically and can magnify peak loads.


Concept / Approach:
Argument strength turns on relevance and realism. Generalized benefit-to-builders claims (without public-interest linkage) are weak; arguments addressing land economics and infrastructure sequencing are stronger.


Step-by-Step Solution:

I: Land scarcity makes vertical development a rational policy. This is directly relevant and hence strong (against restriction).II: “Only builders benefit” is one-sided and ignores affordability, supply, and zoning outcomes; weak.III: “Infra first” is a sound governance principle—permit capacity should follow service capacity, ensuring safety and quality of life. Strong.


Verification / Alternative check:
Best practice ties floor-area ratios and approvals to infrastructure benchmarks (transit-oriented development, impact fees). This aligns with I and III being strong in different directions.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
II lacks public-interest reasoning. “Only I” ignores infrastructure constraints; “Only III” ignores land scarcity.


Common Pitfalls:
Framing the issue as pro- or anti-developer instead of capacity-aligned growth.


Final Answer:
I and III are strong.

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