Introduction
Water transport refers to the movement of freight or people by boat, ship, ferries etc. on water. It is cost-effective and environmentally friendly means of transportation. In this post we are going to highlight some major advantages and disadvantages of water transport.
Merits Of Water Transport System
The main advantages or merits of water transportation can be pointed out as follows:
1. Suitable For Heavy Cargo
Water transport is the only suitable means to transport heavy and big sized goods and materials.
2. Foreign Trade
Water transport is the cheapest and suitable means for transporting goods, conducting trade among different countries, importing and exporting goods.
3. Natural Gift
Rivers, lakes, seas, etc. are free gifts provided by nature. So, no additional expense is needed to construct waterways like roads and railway construction.
4. Cheap
Low cost is another advantage or merit of water transport.It is the cheapest means of transportation. Its operational expense remains unchanged and relatively cheap. As it can carry and transport huge amount of goods at a time, per unit cost becomes low.
Manor disadvantages or demerits of water transport can be described as follows:
1. Slow Speed And Time Consuming
Water transport is very slow means of transport. It takes long time to travel or transport goods. Moreover, waterways are winding.
2. Uncertain
Uncertainty is another demerit of water transport. Sailing boat, motorboat, steamer, ship etc. become impractical in waterways, because the water in rivers, lakes, canals dries off. They are affected by seasonal changes. They become shallow which is risky in sailing the means of water transport.
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3. Risky
Water transport is risky. Sea storm may cause ship, boat accident. A great of lives and property may happen. The means of water transport like ship, boat and steamer may get ruined.
4. Unsuitable For Perishable Goods
Water transport is not suitable for for transporting perishable goods, because it takes long time to reach the destination.
Pros And Cons Of Water Transportation In Short
Pros:
* It is eco-friendly mode of transportation
* It is ideal for transporting heavy goods and materials
* It is flexible than other methods of transport
* It is safe and reliable than road and air transportation
* It is relatively cheaper than other means of transportation
Cons:
* It is much slower than other modes of transports
* It is unsuitable for transporting perishable goods
*It requires high initial investment
* It is not ideas for short distance
* It is influenced by weather and sea condition