Climate Change

Climate
Climate refers to the average weather conditions of a particular region over a long period of time,
typically 30 years or more.
Climate is the statistical description of the average and variability of relevant quantities of atmospheric
conditions—such as temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind, and pressure—over a period of time
ranging from months to thousands or even millions of years, typically measured over a standard 30-year
period, in a specific region or globally.

Climate change
Climate change is the change in climate patterns over a specific area and time, affecting regions locally
and the world as a whole.
Climate change refers to long-term shifts or alterations in global or regional climate patterns, including
changes in temperature, precipitation, wind, and other elements of the Earth's climate system,
occurring over decades or longer. These changes may result from natural processes or human activities,
especially the emission of greenhouse gases.

What are the underlying reasons/ causes for climate change?

1.Internal factor: Internal factors contributing to climate change refer to natural processes within the
Earth’s climate system that can alter climate patterns over time. These include:
Volcanic Activity – Volcanic eruptions release large amounts of gases and particles into the atmosphere,
which can temporarily cool or warm the climate.
Ocean Currents – Changes in ocean circulation can redistribute heat across the globe, influencing
regional and global climates.
Tectonic Movements – The shifting of Earth's plates can alter the position of continents and oceans,
affecting wind patterns, ocean currents, and long-term climate.
Natural Variability in the Atmosphere – Fluctuations of parameters affect temperature and
precipitation patterns globally.
Carbon Cycle Feedbacks – Internal exchanges of carbon between the atmosphere, oceans, and
biosphere can intensify or moderate climate change.

2. External factor: External factors contributing to climate change are those influences from outside
the Earth’s climate system that can alter the planet's climate. These include:
Solar Radiation – Variations in the Sun's energy output can affect Earth's climate.
Orbital Changes – Shifts in Earth's orbit and tilt (Milankovitch Cycles) influence long-term climate
patterns.
Meteorite Impacts – Large impacts can release dust and gases, cooling the climate temporarily.
Cosmic Rays – High-energy particles from space may influence cloud formation and climate.
Volcanic Eruptions - Large eruptions can send ash and gases into the atmosphere, cooling the Earth.

3.Human activity: Human activities are a major driver of modern climate change, primarily through the
following actions:
Greenhouse Gas Emissions – Burning fossil fuels releases CO2 and other gases, trapping heat.
Deforestation – Clearing forests reduces CO2 absorption, increasing atmospheric greenhouse gases.
Industrial Agriculture – Livestock farming and fertilizer use release methane and nitrous oxide.
Land Use Changes – Converting natural areas into urban or agricultural land disrupts the carbon cycle.
Waste Management – Landfill waste decomposition produces methane, contributing to climate change.
 Factors affecting climate change :
A.Territorial factor:
Geographic Location: The latitude of a region determines its exposure to solar radiation, affecting
temperature and precipitation patterns. For example, areas closer to the equator experience warmer
temperatures year-round.
Elevation: Higher altitudes generally lead to cooler temperatures. Mountain ranges can influence
weather patterns and block or redirect wind and moisture, impacting regional climates.
Proximity to Oceans or Water Bodies: Areas near large water bodies have milder climates due to water’s
heat-retaining properties, whereas inland areas may experience more extreme temperature variations.
Topography: The physical features of the land, like mountains, valleys, and plains, can influence wind
patterns, precipitation, and temperature, shaping the local climate.
Soil Type: Different soil types retain moisture and heat differently, which can influence vegetation, local
temperature, and the ability of the land to store carbon.
Vegetation Cover: Forests, grasslands, and other types of vegetation affect how much carbon dioxide is
absorbed or released, influencing the local climate and contributing to larger-scale climate dynamics.

B. Atmospheric factor:
Greenhouse Gases: CO₂, methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O) trap heat in the atmosphere,
contributing to global warming.
Solar Radiation: Changes in the Sun's energy output influence Earth's climate.
Cloud Cover: Clouds can either cool the Earth by reflecting sunlight or warm it by trapping heat.
Atmospheric Circulation: Wind patterns (e.g., jet streams, trade winds) distribute heat and moisture,
affecting weather and climate.
Water Vapor: The most abundant greenhouse gas, water vapor amplifies the greenhouse effect.
Ozone Layer: The depletion of the ozone layer affects the Earth's ability to absorb harmful UV radiation,
influencing atmospheric conditions.
Pressure Systems: High and low-pressure systems control weather patterns, such as storms and
precipitation.

C. Land & Ocean factor:

Albedo Effect: Changes in surface reflectivity (e.g., ice melting, deforestation) impact climate.
Ocean Currents: Redistribute heat, affecting weather patterns.
Sea Level Rise: Melting ice raises sea levels, impacting coastal climates.
Ocean Heat Absorption: Oceans store heat, influencing global temperatures.

D. Tectonic factor:
Plate Movements: Shifting tectonic plates can alter the position of continents, influencing ocean
currents and climate patterns.
Volcanic Activity: Volcanic eruptions release gases like CO₂ and aerosols, which can either warm or cool
the Earth's climate.
Ocean Basin Changes: Shifts in the configuration of ocean basins can impact the flow of currents and
alter climate over long timescales.

E. Other factor:
Overpopulation: Increased demand for resources leads to higher emissions and deforestation.
Urbanization: Expansion of cities increases energy consumption, emissions, and land-use changes.
Pollution: Industrial and vehicle emissions release greenhouse gases and aerosols that affect climate.
Global Warming: The increase in Earth's average temperature due to greenhouse gas emissions.
Ozone Layer Depletion: Loss of ozone allows more UV radiation, disrupting atmospheric balance and
climate.
Deforestation: Cutting down forests reduces CO₂ absorption and disrupts local and global climate
regulation.
Agriculture: Livestock and farming practices release methane and nitrous oxide, potent greenhouse
gases.
Fossil Fuel Consumption: Burning coal, oil, and natural gas releases large amounts of CO₂ and other
greenhouse gases.
Waste Management: Decomposing waste in landfills produces methane, contributing to global
warming.
Land Use Changes: Conversion of land for agriculture, urbanization, or mining alters carbon storage and
heat distribution.

Climate Change Effects:

Evidence :
Rising Global Temperatures: Average global temperatures have increased by about 1.1°C, leading to
more extreme weather and melting ice.
Melting Ice Caps & Glaciers: Ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica are melting rapidly, contributing to
sea-level rise and reinforcing global warming.
Extreme Weather Events: More frequent and intense events like hurricanes, floods, and wildfires are
linked to higher temperatures and altered weather patterns.
Ocean Acidification: Increased CO2 is causing ocean acidification, threatening marine life and
ecosystems, particularly corals and shellfish.
Ecosystem & Biodiversity Shifts: Rising temperatures disrupt ecosystems, forcing species to migrate or
face extinction, impacting food webs.
Sea-Level Rise: Sea levels have risen by 3.3 mm annually since 1993, submerging coastlines and
threatening infrastructure.
Shifting Agricultural Zones: Changes in temperature and precipitation are altering agricultural zones,
affecting crop production and food security.
Siltation in Water Bodies: Increased rainfall and runoff due to climate change lead to higher
sedimentation in rivers and lakes, degrading water quality and habitats.
Warming Oceans: Rising ocean temperatures disrupt marine life, affecting fisheries and coral reefs, and
contributing to the intensification of storms.
Shrinkage of Ice Sheets: Accelerated melting of ice sheets in the Arctic and Antarctic contributes
significantly to rising sea levels.
Decreased Snow Cover: Snow cover is shrinking in many regions, reducing freshwater availability and
increasing the albedo effect, which accelerates warming.

Factors Affecting Climate of a Locality:

1. Altitude: Higher areas are cooler.
2. Latitude: Closer to the equator is warmer; closer to poles is cooler.
3. Proximity to Sea: Coastal areas have milder, stable climates.
4. Air Pressure and Wind Systems: Winds distribute heat and moisture.
5. Mountains and Barriers: Create wet and dry zones (rain shadows).
6. Ocean Currents: Warm and cold currents affect coastal temperatures.
7. Storm Patterns: Cyclones and monsoons shape local climate.
8. Vegetation: Forests cool and humidify areas; deserts cause temperature extremes.
 Consequences of Climate Change on Agriculture
1. Rising Temperature
Heat Stress: Crops like wheat, maize, and rice suffer reduced yields due to heat stress during flowering
and grain filling.
Increased Evaporation: Higher temperatures increase soil moisture loss, especially in dry areas.
Shorter Life Cycle: Accelerated plant growth results in incomplete development and lower yields.
Reduced Yield: Extreme heat during critical stages like flowering leads to poor pollination and
dehydration.
Faster Development: Premature flowering and fruiting produce underdeveloped crops with reduced
quality.
2. Increased CO₂ Levels
Enhanced Photosynthesis: C3 plants (wheat, rice, soybeans) may increase yields, but gains are limited
by nutrient and water stress.
Effect on C4 Plants: C4 plants (maize, sugarcane) benefit less from higher CO₂ but may improve water
efficiency.
Nutrient Quality: Elevated CO₂ reduces protein, iron, and zinc levels in staple crops.
Impact on Cooking Quality: Lower protein affects dough elasticity and food texture.
Effect on Starch Content: Higher starch but lower protein changes texture and digestibility of crops.
3. Soil Fertility and Degradation
Soil Erosion: Heavy rainfall and floods wash away fertile topsoil.
Loss of Organic Matter: Heat and drought reduce soil fertility and microbial activity.
Soil Compaction: Wet conditions and heavy machinery hinder root growth and water infiltration.
4. Pests, Diseases, and Weeds
Pest Proliferation: Warmer climates allow pests to expand their range and increase crop damage.
Plant Diseases: Rising humidity favors the spread of diseases, reducing crop yields.
Weed Growth: Elevated CO₂ boosts weed growth, competing with crops for resources.
5. Increased UV Radiation
Reduced Plant Growth: UV damages plant cells, stunting growth and reducing photosynthesis.
Altered Crop Yield: Sensitive species suffer reduced yields and visible damage.
Massive Mutation: DNA damage from UV causes harmful mutations, affecting viability and fertility.
6. Water Stress and Availability
Droughts: Prolonged dry periods limit water for irrigation, reducing crop quality.
Irrigation Stress: Water shortages force shifts toward drought-resistant crops.
Waterlogging: Excess rainfall suffocates roots and promotes diseases.
7. Ocean Currents and Sea-Level Rise (Coastal Agriculture)
Salinization: Saltwater intrusion renders coastal soils unsuitable for crops.
Flooding: Rising seas flood farmlands, damaging crops and infrastructure.
8. Extreme Weather Events (Floods, Droughts, Hurricanes)
Crop Loss: Extreme events destroy crops and farm structures.
Soil Degradation: Flooding and storms erode soils, reducing productivity.
Crop Failure Risk: Unpredictable weather increases food insecurity.
9. Changes in Ecosystems and Pollination
Disrupted Pollination: Pollinator decline due to habitat loss threatens crop production.
Crop Shifts: Farmers must adapt to new crops as traditional crops fail in changing climates.
10. Shifts in Growing Seasons and Crop Zones
Changing Crop Zones: Temperature rises force shifts in suitable farming areas.
Altered Growing Seasons: Changes in season length impact planting schedules and harvests.
11. Soil pH Changes
Acidification: CO₂-driven soil acidification reduces nutrient availability.
Reduced Fertilizer Efficiency: Acidic soils lower fertilizer effectiveness, harming yields.
 Region variation of Bangladesh along with different parameters
A.Based on temperature
Extremely low temperature (4°C)
Regions: Panchagarh, Nilphamari, Thakurgaon, Kurigram (northernmost districts)
1. Experiences the lowest temperatures in the country
2. Dense fog, frost in some areas

Low temperature (8-10°C)

Regions: Rajshahi, Bogura, Rangpur, Mymensingh, Dhaka
1. Chilly mornings and nights
2. Moderate fog, occasional cold waves
3. Common for Rabi crop cultivation
Medium temperature (10-15°)
Regions: Jessore, Khulna, Faridpur, Madaripur, Tangail
1. Cooler than coastal regions but warmer than the north
2. Suitable for diverse winter crops
Above medium temperature (15-20°C)
Regions: Barishal, Patuakhali, Bhola, Jhalokathi
1. Comfortable winter with mild chill
2. Coastal influence keeps temperatures stable
3. Ideal for winter vegetables
Extremely medium temperature (above 20°C)
Regions: Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Sylhet, Hill Tracts (Rangamati, Bandarban, Khagrachari)
1. Least variation between day and night
2. Humid, with mild and pleasant winters
3. Suitable for tropical fruit and spice cultivation

B. Based on solar radiation

High Solar Radiation Zone – Northern Bangladesh
1. Regions included: Rangpur, Dinajpur, Rajshahi, Bogura, etc.
2. Characteristics: These areas generally receive higher solar radiation due to relatively clearer
skies and lower humidity compared to southern regions.
Moderate Solar Radiation Zone – Middle Bangladesh
1. Regions included: Dhaka, Mymensingh, Tangail, Jamalpur, etc.
2. Characteristics: Moderate levels of solar radiation with seasonal variation influenced by
urbanization, cloud cover, and moderate humidity.
Low Solar Radiation Zone – Southern Bangladesh
1. Regions included: Khulna, Barisal, Chattogram, coastal areas like Satkhira, Patuakhali, Cox's
Bazar, etc.
2. Characteristics: These areas receive relatively lower solar radiation due to higher humidity,
frequent cloud cover, and monsoonal effects from the Bay of Bengal

Bangladesh's climate and its vulnerability to climate change:

Bangladesh Climate Overview:
1. Type: Tropical monsoon climate
2. Seasons: Pre-monsoon (March–May), Monsoon (June–October), Post-monsoon (November),
Winter (December–February)
3. General Climate Traits: High humidity, high rainfall (especially in monsoon), and significant
temperature variation between seasons.
Bangladesh is exceptionally vulnerable to climate change due to its geographic position, flat low-lying
landscape, and dense population. The country faces a range of climate-related challenges, including:
1. Coastal Vulnerability: Coastal districts like Khulna and Barisal are highly exposed to sea-level rise,
resulting in increased flooding, erosion, and loss of land.
2. Drought Stress: Northern and western regions often experience extended drought periods, severely
impacting agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods.
3. Rising Temperatures: Higher temperatures are leading to lower crop yields and putting additional
heat stress on both people and livestock.
4. Salinity Intrusion: Sea-level rise combined with decreased freshwater flow is pushing saltwater
further inland, harming agriculture and contaminating drinking water supplies.
5. Cyclones and Storm Surges: Frequent and intense cyclones cause widespread devastation,
destroying crops, homes, and infrastructure.
6. Stronger Winds: Climate change has intensified wind patterns, making cyclones more
powerful and monsoon seasons less predictable.
7. Rainfall Variability: Although about 80% of Bangladesh’s annual rainfall occurs during the
monsoon (June–October), uneven distribution often leads to flooding in some areas and water
shortages in others.

Greenhouse effect :
The Greenhouse Effect is the natural process by which certain gases in Earth’s atmosphere trap heat
from the sun, keeping the planet warm enough to support life.
The greenhouse effect is a natural process where certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere (such as
carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor) trap heat from the sun, keeping the Earth warm enough to
support life. Without it, the planet would be too cold for most living organisms.
Greenhouse Gases (GHGs):

• Carbon dioxide (CO₂) – from burning fossil fuels, deforestation

• Methane (CH₄) – from livestock, rice paddies, landfills
• Nitrous oxide (N₂O) – from chemical fertilizers
• Water vapor (H₂O) – naturally occurring but increases with warming
• Ozone (O₃) – in the lower atmosphere
Global warming :
Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to the
buildup of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere—mainly from human activities.
Global warming is a gradual increase in the earth’s temperature generally due to the greenhouse effect
caused by increased levels of carbon dioxide, CFCs, and other pollutants.

Causes of the Greenhouse Effect

Natural Causes:
1. Forest Fires: Naturally occurring fires, such as those sparked by lightning, release large amounts of
CO₂ and other gases into the atmosphere.
2. Solar Radiation: The sun emits energy that warms the earth's surface, playing a natural role in
maintaining the planet’s temperature.
3. Volcanic Eruptions: Volcanic activity releases CO₂, methane, and other greenhouse gases,
contributing to natural atmospheric changes.
Human-Induced Causes:
1. Deforestation: Cutting down trees reduces the earth’s ability to absorb CO₂, increasing atmospheric
carbon levels.
2. Agricultural Practices: Livestock farming emits methane, while excessive fertilizer use releases
nitrous oxide, both potent greenhouse gases.
3. Industrial Activities: Factories and industries emit significant quantities of CO₂ and other harmful
gases into the environment.
4. Waste Management: Landfills release methane and CO₂ as organic waste decomposes.
 Threats of the Greenhouse Effect to the World
• Global Warming: Increased greenhouse gas concentrations trap more heat, raising global
temperatures, leading to hotter summers and milder winters.
• Rising Sea Levels: Melting polar ice caps are causing sea levels to rise, endangering coastal cities,
islands, and low-lying regions.
• Ocean Acidification: Excess atmospheric CO₂ dissolves in seawater, making oceans more acidic and
threatening marine ecosystems, especially corals and shellfish.
• Agricultural Challenges: Unpredictable weather patterns impact crop production, leading to food
shortages and rising prices.
• Loss of Biodiversity: Many species struggle to survive as their habitats are altered or destroyed by
climate change.
• Human Health Risks: Increased heat waves, respiratory issues, and the spread of diseases like
malaria and dengue threaten public health.
• Economic Losses: Infrastructure damage from extreme weather events imposes high costs for repair
and climate adaptation efforts.
Impact of Global Warming on Agriculture
Heat Stress: Elevated temperatures can reduce crop yields and degrade quality.
Altered Rainfall Patterns: Irregular rainfall leads to droughts in some areas and floods in others, harming
crops.
Increased Pests and Diseases: Warmer climates create favorable conditions for pests and plant diseases,
increasing pesticide dependence.
Shortened Growing Seasons: Higher temperatures can accelerate plant growth, limiting the growing
period and reducing harvests.
Water Scarcity: Enhanced evaporation due to heat decreases available water for irrigation.
Soil Degradation: Soil moisture loss and decreased organic content lead to poor soil health and
increased erosion.
Shifting Growing Seasons: Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns make it harder for farmers to
predict the best planting and harvesting times.
Nutritional Decline: Elevated CO₂ levels can lower the protein and micronutrient content of key crops
like rice and wheat.

Protecting Agriculture from the Greenhouse Effect

1. Use Climate-Resilient Crops: Grow drought-tolerant, heat-resistant, and flood-resilient varieties to
minimize losses.
2. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Apply IPM practices to manage pests and diseases sustainably,
reducing chemical use.
3. Crop Diversification: Growing a variety of crops lowers the risk of total crop failure.
4. Weather Forecasting: Utilize weather predictions and early warning systems for better planning of
sowing and harvesting.
5. Efficient Water Management: Adopt methods like drip irrigation, sprinkler systems, and rainwater
harvesting.
6. Soil Conservation Practices: Techniques like mulching, planting cover crops, and minimal tillage help
maintain soil health.
7. Agroforestry: Planting trees with crops provides shade, enhances biodiversity, and captures carbon.
8. Reduce Chemical Fertilizer Use: Promote organic and biofertilizers to cut emissions and improve soil
quality.
9. Policies and Education: Support farmers with subsidies and training on climate-smart agriculture
techniques.
 Barrage and Dam
Barrage : A barrage is a barrier built across a river to control the flow of water. It usually has a series
of gates that can be opened or closed to regulate water levels and flow for purposes like irrigation, flood
control, and navigation.
Dam: A dam is a large, solid barrier built across a river or stream to store water in a reservoir. It is
used for water supply, irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and recreation.

Classification of barrage
Based on Function:
Diversion Barrage:Used to divert water from a river into canals for irrigation or other uses.
Storage Barrage (rare):Used to store water
temporarily. Less common than dams for storage
purposes.

Based on Structural Design:

Concrete Barrage:Made primarily of reinforced
concrete.
Steel Barrage:Includes steel gates and supporting
framework.
Masonry Barrage:Constructed using stone or brick
masonry.

Based on Location:
Headworks Barrage:Constructed at the head of a canal system to divert water.
Regulator Barrage:Used downstream of rivers to regulate flow and levels.
Classification of Dam
Based on Materials Used:
Concrete Dams:Made from concrete.
Masonry Dams:Built with stone or brick masonry.
Earthfill (Earthen) Dams:Made from compacted earth.
Rockfill Dams:Made using loose rocks with an impervious core.
Composite Dams:Combination of different materials (e.g., concrete + earthfill).

Based on Size (Height):

Low Dams: Less than 15 meters high.
Medium Dams: Between 15 and 30 meters
high.
High Dams: More than 30 meters high.

Based on Purpose:
• Irrigation Dams
• Hydroelectric Dams
• Flood Control Dams
• Water Supply Dams
• Navigation Dams
• Recreation Dams
• Multipurpose Dams (serve more than
one purpose)
Based on Structural Design:
Gravity Dams:Resist the force of water using their own weight.
Arch Dams:Curved shape, transfers water pressure to abutments.
Buttress Dams:Use supports or buttresses on the downstream side.
Embankment Dams:Include earthfill and rockfill dams.

Based on Function:
Storage Dams:Store water for future use (e.g., for irrigation or drinking).
Diversion Dams:Raise water level to divert into canals.
Detention Dams:Temporarily store floodwaters to reduce peak flow downstream.

Based on Use:
Permanent Dams:Built for long-term use.
Temporary (Check) Dams:Used for short-term purposes, often seasonal or for small-scale projects.

Based on Release Pattern:

Overflow (Spillway) Dams:Water flows over the dam crest or through spillways during floods.
Non-overflow Dams:Water is released only through controlled outlets (no water allowed over the
crest).
Controlled Spillway Dams:Equipped with gates to control water release.
Uncontrolled Spillway Dams:No gates; water flows freely once it reaches the spillway level.
Difference between barrage and dam

Feature Dam Barrage

Mainly for storing water by creating a Mainly for diverting water into canals or
Purpose
reservoir. irrigation systems.
Series of gates built across a
Structure Solid wall blocking the river completely.
river.
Water Does not store significant water; raises water
Stores large amounts of water.
Storage level slightly.
Height Usually high (can be 15m to over 100m). Relatively low structure.
May or may not have gates; used mainly
Gates Has adjustable gates to regulate water flow.
for spillway control.
Reservoir Forms a large reservoir or lake behind the Forms a small ponding area (headpond)
Formation dam. upstream.
Flow May release water via spillways or outlets; Uses adjustable gates to control and regulate
Control not always adjustable. water flow precisely.
Sedimentati- Less sediment accumulation due to continuous
More prone to siltation in reservoirs.
on Control flow.
Flood Used for flood mitigation and water
Not primarily used for flood control.
Control storage.

Hydroelectric Major dams often have hydroelectric Barragrs typically do not grnerate electricity.
Generation plants
Primary To store water, generate hydroelectric To divert river water into irrigation canals or
Objective power and flood control regulate water flow
Example Kaptai dam Farakka barrage
 Purposes of a Dam:
1. Water Storage:Store river water for future use in irrigation, drinking, and industrial purposes.
2. Hydropower Generation:Convert potential energy of stored water into electricity.
3. Flood Control:Hold excess water during heavy rainfall and release it gradually to prevent floods.
4. Irrigation: Supply water to agricultural fields through canals.
5. Drinking Water Supply: Provide a reliable source of water for urban and rural areas.
6. Recreation & Tourism: Reservoirs support boating, fishing, and scenic tourism.
7. Navigation: Maintain water levels for inland water transport in some regions.
8. Aquatic Life & Habitat: Create artificial lakes that can support fish and other wildlife.
Purposes of a Barrage:
1. Irrigation Water Diversion: Raise river water level to divert it into irrigation canals.
2. River Flow Regulation:Control water discharge during dry and flood seasons.
3. Navigation Support: Maintain a steady water level for boat or ship passage.
4. Prevent Saline Water Intrusion (in coastal areas): Stop sea water from moving upstream and
contaminating fresh water.
5. Water Supply Control: Provide controlled water for domestic, industrial, or agricultural use.
6. Fish Migration (with fish ladders): Help in managing fish movement in some designs.
Significance of Dams and Barrages
Dams and barrages are vital infrastructures for water management and offer numerous benefits. Their
significance includes:
1. Water Storage and Distribution:Dams store vast quantities of water, ensuring a continuous
supply for drinking, irrigation, and industrial activities, particularly in dry periods. Barrages
regulate river flow, allowing for controlled water distribution, especially for agricultural use.
2. Tourism and Recreation:Reservoirs and controlled waterways created by dams and barrages are
used for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming, boosting local tourism
and economies.
3. Fisheries and Aquatic Biodiversity:Dams create reservoirs that support fish farming and enhance
aquatic biodiversity. Barrages also help control saline water intrusion in coastal regions,
preserving freshwater ecosystems.
4. Navigation and River Transport:By maintaining stable water levels, dams and barrages improve
inland navigation, making the transport of goods and people more efficient.
5. Agricultural Support and Irrigation:Both structures provide a reliable source of irrigation water,
helping increase agricultural output and ensuring food security.
6. Hydropower Generation:Dams harness the flow of water to produce hydroelectricity, a clean
and renewable energy source. Barrages can also generate power, although usually on a smaller
scale compared to large dams.
7. Flood Management:Dams and barrages reduce the risk of downstream flooding by storing
excess rainfall and releasing water in a controlled manner.
8. Environmental Contributions:These structures support environmental sustainability by
maintaining river flows during dry spells, creating wetlands, and providing habitats for various
aquatic species.
9. Economic Development:The construction and operation of dams and barrages stimulate
economic activities by creating employment, supporting agriculture and industry, and
contributing to energy production.
10. Climate Adaptation:They strengthen climate resilience by securing water for use during
droughts and mitigating the impacts of floods.
11. Aesthetic and Cultural Value:Dams and barrages enhance landscape beauty, attracting tourists
and promoting recreational and cultural activities.