A dam is a structure made of bricks, clay, concrete etc. over a river or a stream to control its water flow. This structure helps in holding back the water flow and subsequently forms artificial lakes or reservoirs.
These artificial lakes or reservoirs serve a handful of purposes; they help in irrigation, industrial usage of water and household usages. Moreover, these lakes help to prevent floods by controlling the water flow.
Even though lakes are essential, they often affect the biodiversity and natural flow of water. Thus, alternatives to big dams are being considered and planned to maintain the natural course of actions.
What are the Alternative Ideas?
Big dams have their advantages as they aid in multiple regions and overall development of surrounding areas. However, it has its drawbacks too. Thus, alternatives to big dams are a need of the hour to save ecosystems.
Conserving water and efficient use of water is touted as one of the primary solutions. Additionally, water recycling is another alternative to large dams. However, the acceptance of these processes may take time, but they can save the ecosystems.
An alternative to big dams can restore the ecological balance of a river and its surroundings.
Purpose of Dams
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Distributing Water
Dams play an essential role in distributing water as per requirements. Moreover, it helps in irrigation by supplying the needed water and prevent flooding of agricultural lands. Additionally, industries and families living around the area are also benefitted from a dam and its controlled water flow.
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Generating Electricity
Dams aids in generating hydropower. When the water is released via gates and passed through turbines, the force of water generates electricity. Moreover, hydropower is a source of renewable energy. Additionally, it has a high demand around the world.
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Flood Control
Apart from distributing water and generating electricity, dams play a crucial role in controlling the flood. Certain dams are purpose-built to manage flood, and they can reduce it by almost 30%-50%. On the other hand, some dams are equipped with this secondary function. With appropriate planning, they can prevent areas from flooding.
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Waste Containment
Dams are often built to contain various types of wastes. These dams do not let such waste to mix in the river water and contaminate it.
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Recreational Activities
Artificial lakes created by dams promote various recreational activities. Individuals can take their boats for a trip, or go for a fishing trip, etc. Several tourism prospects can be developed surrounding a dam.
These are some primary purpose of building a dam. However, the adverse effects of large dams and reservoirs are numerous and varied. Moreover, it directly impacts the chemical and physical properties of a river and its ecosystem.