Before starting any technological project, it is very important to consider the long-term effects of the project on the environment. The unplanned technological growth in any area may disturb the delicate balance existing in the ecosystem. Ill effects of the unplanned technological growth on the ecosystem of an area can be highlighted by considering the construction of Aswan Dam on the river Nile in Egypt. Aswan Dam was built in 1967. It was anticipated that the construction of dam would achieve the following objectives:
1. It would prevent the annual flooding of the river.
2. It would provide water for irrigation.
3. It would generate hydroelectric power.
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However, an important point, which was not for seen at the time of construction of the dam, was its effect on the natural ecosystem of the area. Construction this dam disturbed the harmonious relationship existing between the river, the valley, sand and the animal population existing in the area. The ill effects of the Aswan Dam on the environment became visible within a few years.
Major negative effects of the Aswan Dam are given below:
1. The soil became poor in quality (less fertile) because in the absence of annual floods, nutrient rich silt was not brought to the banks of the river.
2. In order to nourish the soil, chemical fertilizers had to be applied. Fertilizer factories were set up to produce chemical fertilizers. These factories consumed most of the hydroelectric power generated by the dam.
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3. The canals, which were dug up for the purpose of irrigation of adjoining areas, increased the salt content of the soil. This necessitated desalination of the soil.
4. Just within three years, there was 97 per cent decrease in the Sardine downstream in the river was trapped by the reservoir. Due to the lack of nutrients, the fish population in the river decreased which resulted in reduction of fish catch.
In view of so many adverse effects, scientists realized that the Aswan Dam had heralded an ecological disaster.