SUMMIT LEVEL CANAL Meaning and
Definition
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A summit level canal refers to a man-made waterway that is constructed at an elevated height to connect two bodies of water located at different elevations. It is designed to overcome the difference in height by utilizing locks or lifts, enabling the transportation of ships and boats between these bodies of water.
The term "summit level" refers to the highest point along the canal route, usually referred to as a summit. This section of the canal is typically levelled at a specific height to maintain a consistent water level throughout, ensuring smooth navigation for vessels. Consequently, it eliminates the need for extensive excavation or cutting through hill terrains, as the water is kept at a constant elevation to allow for the transport of goods and people.
Summit level canals are significant engineering achievements, requiring careful planning to maintain a specific water level and prevent flooding or excessive loss of water from the system. These canals often incorporate locks, which are water chambers that raise or lower vessels between different elevations to match the water levels on both sides. Sometimes, hydraulic lifts or inclined planes may be used instead of locks to facilitate the transportation of vessels.
Summit level canals have played a vital role in promoting inland navigation, facilitating trade, and connecting previously inaccessible regions. They have historically been instrumental in transporting goods, such as raw materials and manufactured products, more efficiently, greatly benefiting economic development, regional integration, and international commerce.
