China’s Three Gorges Dam-Was it worth the cost?

Geography

I feel that the effort and cost put into the dam weren’t worth it. China’s Three Gorges Dam has caused so much damage to the environment, and people around it. Some have already had major effects, whilst others may cause future difficulties.

The first problem is the environment. A major concern is the likely silting-up of the reservoir behind the dam. up to 50% of the silt is deposited behind the dam, and that could quickly reduce the storage capacity of the reservoir. This will cause increased river and coastal erosion. Another thing is that the water in the river is becoming heavily polluted from all the shipping and waste discharged from cities. Toxic substances from factories are also released into the river, eventually moving downstream as water is released through the dam. The toxic waste can harm inhabitants in the river. The Yangtze dolphin was thought to have become extinct in 2006, because of such low numbers. Deforestation and landslides occur too. Another problem is that the river has taken many homes. People live in fear because they are afraid that their house might collapse, and others have moved into a city and live in confusion and sadness there. The government has a really long waitlist and that isn’t really helping anyone.

Something needs to be done for the people and the environment before it is too late. This is why the dam wasn’t worth the cost and effort.

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