Hydraulic Structures in Urban Drainage Systems

Large hydraulic structures are of major importance to sustained life-support systems and have an impact on the environment. Dams, reservoirs and open canals are such structures, the impact of which has been duly appreciated and addressed in environmental impact assessments and side-effects amelioration programs. Less obvious, but of vital importance, is the impact of urban drainage systems on humanity's immediate living environment. Water brought in for urban or rural consumption gives rise to effluent that has to be disposed of eventually. Manufacturing and consumption generate waste products and packaging materials that have to be dealt with by disposal of flushing systems, dependent on water.