Water Resource Management

Water resources play a vital role in the field of civil engineering. They are used in a variety of applications, including construction, transportation, and energy production. In this guide, we will discuss the importance of water resources in civil engineering and how they are used in different aspects of the field.

Construction: Water is an essential component of concrete, which is the primary building material used in construction. Without water, concrete cannot be mixed and poured into the forms needed for building structures. Additionally, water is also used for curing concrete, which helps to increase its strength and durability.

Transportation: Water resources are also used in the construction of transportation infrastructure, such as ports, harbors, and canals. These structures allow ships and boats to safely navigate through bodies of water, which is essential for trade and commerce.

Energy production: Water resources are also used in the production of energy. Hydroelectric power plants use the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity. Additionally, water is used to cool and lubricate equipment in thermal power plants, which produce electricity by burning fossil fuels.

Agriculture: Water resources are vital for agriculture as well. Irrigation systems are used to provide water to crops, and dams and reservoirs are used to store water for irrigation during dry seasons.

Drinking water and sanitation: Water resources are also essential for providing clean drinking water and proper sanitation. Treatment plants purify water so that it is safe to drink and waste water treatment plants remove impurities from used water before it is released back into the environment.

Flood control: Water resources also play an important role in flood control. Dams, levees, and other structures are used to hold back and divert water during periods of heavy rainfall, which can help to prevent flooding and protect communities.

In conclusion, water resources are essential for civil engineering and play a vital role in the construction of infrastructure, energy production, agriculture, and in maintaining public health and safety. Therefore, it is important for civil engineers to consider the availability and management of water resources when planning and designing projects.


Water resource management is a very important issue from several angles such as development of water bodies for future, protection of available water bodies from pollution and over exploitation and to prevent disputes.

Why is it important to manage water resources Why are liquids instead of gas is used in hydraulic brakes.

About the Author
Er. Mukesh Kumar
Er. Mukesh Kumar is Editor in Chief and Co-Fonder at ProCivilEngineer.com Civil Engineering Website. Mukesh Kumar is a Bachelor in Civil Engineering From MIT. He has work experience in Highway Construction, Bridge Construction, Railway Steel Girder work, Under box culvert construction, Retaining wall construction. He was a lecturer in a Engineering college for more than 6 years.