Comprehension:
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
The rise in the Irrawaddy dolphin (1) _______ in Chilika can be attributed to the eviction of (2)  _______ fish enclosures.After thousands of hectares of Chilika lake were made (3) _______ free, Irrawaddy dolphins found unobstructed area for movement. (4) _______, due to the COVID-19
lockdown last year, there were comparatively fewer tourist boats on Chilika lake, which made it (5) _______ for dolphins to move from one part of the lake to another.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 3.

The correct option is encroachment.

Step-by-step explanation:

1. Analyze the context: The passage states: "The rise in the Irrawaddy dolphin... in Chilika can be attributed to the eviction of... fish enclosures." The next sentence explains: "After thousands of hectares of Chilika lake were made (3) _______ free, Irrawaddy dolphins found unobstructed area for movement." The context clearly refers to removing illegal structures that were occupying or obstructing the lake's space.

2. Evaluate the options:
- Encroachment: This refers to the gradual, unauthorized intrusion or occupation of land or territory. Making the lake "encroachment-free" directly means freeing it from illegal structures (such as the fish enclosures), restoring unobstructed space for the dolphins.
- Trespass: This means entering someone's property without permission. It generally refers to the action of people rather than the physical structures occupying a territory, making "trespass-free" incorrect in this context.
- Confiscation: This is the legal seizure of property by an authority. "Confiscation-free" would imply a lack of seizure, which does not fit the narrative of clearing the lake.
- Intervention: This refers to the act of intervening in a situation to alter its course. "Intervention-free" is irrelevant to removing physical obstacles from the lake.

3. Conclusion: Therefore, "encroachment" is the most fitting word to complete the phrase "encroachment-free."