Advantages And Disadvantages Of Water Transport

Water transport is an oldest means of carrying men and materials through sea, lake, rivers and canals. Main advantages and disadvantages of water transportation can be described as follows:

Merits Or Advantages Or Benefits Of Water Transport

1. Low Cost

Water transportation is cheaper than other means of transport (i.e. road, rail and air transport). It does not require infrastructure development costs and can be operated with low running cost.

2. Ideal For Heavy And Bulky Products

It is suitable to transport bulky goods and heavy cargo because of its largest carrying capacity.

3. Flexibility

It is more flexible than road and rail transport because it can be easily adjusted according to the requirements.
advantages disadvantages water transportation
4. Safety

Water Transport is safer than other forms of transport because of lower rate of accidents and breakdowns. 

5. No Disruption

There is very less chance of delay in water transport because of less traffic congestion.


Demerits/Disadvantages Or Drawbacks Of Water Transport

Demerits or disadvantages of water transport can be highlighted as follows:

1. Slow Speed

Slow speed is the main drawback of water transport. It takes a long time to reach the destination.

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2. Unsuitable For Perishable Products

It is not suitable to carry perishable goods by this means of transport because of long lead time.

3. Uncertain

Water transport is highly affected by adverse weather condition. So, there is uncertainty and irregularity in this means of transport.

4. Not Suitable For Short Distance

AS it is the slowest means of transporting goods and people, therefore it is not suitable to carry small loads over short distance (in terms of cost and time).