The construction of hydraulic structures (such as dams, reservoirs, irrigation
systems, hydroelectric plants, drainage channels, and water supply systems) has a
significant positive impact on a country's economy because it enables the controlled
use of water resources for water supply, energy production, irrigation, and flood
protection.
✅ Economic Benefits of Hydraulic Structures:
Increased agricultural production – irrigation leads to higher crop yields and allows
multiple growing seasons.
Stable water supply – supports the development of industry, tourism, and urban
areas.
Renewable energy generation – hydropower provides affordable and clean
electricity.
Job creation and regional development – construction and maintenance create
employment opportunities.
Flood and drought mitigation – protects infrastructure, land, and lives.
Five Notable Examples of Dramatic Economi
Impact:
1. Great Man-Made River (GMR) – LIBYA
Description: The world's largest irrigation project, started in 1984. It transports fossil
water from deep underground aquifers in the Sahara to coastal cities and agricultural
areas.
Positive impacts:
Provides water to over 70% of Libya’s population.
Enabled the irrigation of tens of thousands of hectares in desert regions.
Boosted domestic agriculture and reduced reliance on food imports.
Facilitated the expansion of settlements in previously uninhabitable areas.
Created thousands of jobs during construction and ongoing maintenance.
Note: The project also faces challenges, such as the non-renewable nature of the
water source and long-term sustainability concerns.
2. Itaipu Dam – Brazil/Paraguay
Positive impacts:
One of the world’s largest hydroelectric power plants.
Supplies about 75% of Paraguay’s electricity and 15% of Brazil’s.
Supported industrial growth and infrastructure development.
3. Aswan High Dam – Egypt
Positive impacts:
Enabled year-round irrigation from the Nile.
Significantly boosted agricultural productivity.
Provided flood protection and electricity generation.
4. Three Gorges Dam – China
Positive impacts:
The world’s largest hydroelectric dam by capacity.
Improved river navigation and flood control.
Strengthened the energy system of central China.
5. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) – USA
Positive impacts:
Regional development during the Great Depression.
Hydropower, irrigation, and erosion control transformed the area.
Increased employment, rural electrification, and industrialization.
Conclusion:
The example of Libya and the Great Man-Made River project shows that even in
extremely arid and geographically challenging environments, hydraulic
infrastructure can transform an entire country—by enabling agriculture,
providing drinking water, supporting urban growth, and stabilizing the economy. Such
projects become the foundation for survival and development amid climate
challenges and water scarcity.