What is Dredging – History, Importance And Effects

What is Dredging?

Dredging can be defined as the process of removing sediment from the banks or bottom of water bodies using dredges which create a vacuum to suck and pump out the debris.

Dredging is vital for reshaping geographical features like drainage systems, improving navigation, building dams and dikes and also recovering minerals or marine fauna of commercial value.

Sedimentation is natural, and sometimes excessive silt, sand, stones, and other debris accumulate on the bottom of canals, rivers, lakes, etc, reducing the waterways’ depths. This prevents ships from passing safely. Sediment accumulation also threatens marine flora and fauna.

Since we depend on waterways for maritime trade and transport, dredging becomes necessary.

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