Theory question 101
Transport, Trade and Tourism(a) Highlight three advantages and three disadvantages of water transport. (b) Explain any four factors that hinder the use of water transport.
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(a) Advantages: cheapest way to carry bulky goods over long distances; natural routes need little maintenance; carries very large loads; relatively safe; links countries and continents. Disadvantages: slow; not flexible (only where there is water, not door to door); high cost of ships and ports; affected by weather and seasons; unsuitable for perishable goods without refrigeration.
(b) Seasonal flow of rivers (low water in the dry season); rapids, waterfalls and cataracts; floating weeds (water hyacinth); silting and sandbars at river mouths and harbours; frozen waterways in winter; shallow and narrow channels; lack of capital for ports and dredging; insecurity.
Explain how each factor stops boats moving.