WAEC Geography 1988 Theory question 103

Theory question 103

Transport, Trade and Tourism

(a) Describe three advantages and three limitations of water transportation
(b) Explain how the limitations identified in (a) above can be overcome

Show the model answer
Model answer

(a) Advantages: cheapest for bulky, heavy goods; carries very large loads over long distances; natural routes – little cost of track; links countries across oceans
Limitations: slow; rapids, waterfalls and shallow stretches block rivers; seasonal changes in water level; limited to places on water; silting of ports; risk of storms and piracy
(b) Dredging channels and harbours; building locks, canals and dams to bypass rapids and regulate water level; faster modern ships and containers; navigational aids (lighthouses, buoys, radar); linking ports to road and rail networks

Explanation

Match each solution to a limitation you named.