Abstract
Dams to raise the water level higher than the surrounding ground are as old as human civilisation and, irrespective of size, depend on certain basic principles, whatever their materials of construction. In developing countries dams are often considered as local symbols of power and prestige, although frequently built there by modern high technology from abroad. Such various techniques of construction as stone masonry, reinforced embankments and prefabrication, for example bricks, are reviewed and illustrated. A combination of traditional materials and labour intensive construction should, where appropriate, be associated with the latest technology, sophisticated laboratories and computers, concludes the author.
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