Uses of Dams
Some major usage of dams are –
- Water Supply: Stored water in the dam is used to provide water to industrial, municipal and residential sites. It also helps in supporting the ecosystem and agriculture by releasing water during drought.
- Electrical generation: Dams work as a source of hydroelectric power, it convert the potential energy which is stored in water into electrical energy and contributes to energy production.
- Flood control: Dams help in controlling floods by collecting and holding water during floods. It also helps in regulating the level of water.
- Erosion Control: Helps stabilize riverbanks and control soil erosion in downstream areas.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Creates habitats that can support diverse fish, bird, and wildlife populations.
Overview on Dams
The advantage of dams lies in their ability to regulate water flow, prevent floods, and store water, thus ensuring a stable water supply for human needs and economic activities. The dams are large barrier-like constructions built on flowing water systems like rivers and streams. The main benefit of dam construction is water storage. When the water level upstream exceeds the dam capacity, floodgates will be opened slightly. This will help in a controlled flow. In this article, we will read about dams, the advantages of dams, their importance for human benefits, and their disadvantages.
Table of Content
- What are Dams?
- Types of Dams
- Uses of Dams
- Importance of Dams for Human Benefits
- Advantages of Dams
- Disadvantages of Dams
Contact Us