Compare the advantages and disadvantages of multi-purpose river projects
Answer:
Multi-purpose river projects are built to store, regulate, and use river water for different purposes like irrigation, hydroelectricity, and flood control.
✅ Advantages:
- Irrigation & Drinking Water – Provides water for agriculture and household use.
- Hydroelectricity Generation – Produces renewable energy for industries and homes.
- Flood Control – Dams regulate river flow, preventing floods.
- Navigation & Fisheries – Maintains water levels for transport and fish breeding.
- Recreation & Tourism – Dams and reservoirs create tourist spots and boost local economies.
❌ Disadvantages:
- Displacement of People – Large dams submerge villages, forcing people to relocate.
- Environmental Damage – Affects aquatic ecosystems and causes deforestation.
- Disrupts Natural Sediment Flow – Causes erosion downstream, reducing soil fertility.
- Water Conflicts – States and countries fight over water-sharing from dams.
- Risk of Earthquakes & Floods – Heavy water storage increases seismic activity and dam failure risks.