$(a)$ How is soil pollution caused?
$(b)$ Write three ways to prevent soil pollution.

(N/A) Soil pollution is caused by the following factors:
- Dumping of industrial wastes in vacant sites,such as along roads,railway tracks,or in sanitary landfills.
- Accumulation of wastes from residences,cattle sheds,industries,and agricultural fields.
- Excessive and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture.
$(b)$ Three ways to prevent soil pollution are:
$(i)$ Judicious and controlled use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
$(ii)$ Proper management and scientific disposal of household and industrial waste.
$(iii)$ Adoption of sustainable agricultural practices such as intensive cropping and terrace farming to maintain soil health.