Sedimentation Problems and Solutions: Roseires Dam and Reservoir, Sudan

Williams, David T.; ,

Sedimentation Problems and Solutions: Roseires Dam and Reservoir, Sudan

by David T. Williams, WEST Consultants Inc, Carlsbad, United States,

Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Hydraulic Engineering

Abstract:

Roseires Dam and reservoir are located in Sudan, Africa on the Blue Nile River. The hydropower from the reservoir provides approximately 80% of the power used in Sudan, thus having a tremendous economic impact on the country. The reservoir was first impounded in 1966 and has been filled annually since then. The Blue Nile has historically been known to carry heavy sediment loads which is associated with erosion from overgrazing in Ethiopia, the Blue Nile's headwaters. During the flood season, the dam's turbine intakes become blocked with debris and sediment. After a severe blockage in 1981, which prevented hydropower generation for several days, consultants from USAID were asked to make recommendations on reducing the sediment and debris impacts on reservoir operations. This led to debris clearing and dredging equipment acquisitions in 1982. In 1988, blockage occurred again during the flood season. This writer was asked by the World Bank to travel to Sudan, investigate the sediment and debris problems, examine the USAID recommendations, comment on potential sediment and debris problems associated with a proposed plan to raise the dam, make additional recommendations, and return to Sudan several times to determine the effectiveness of the recommendations. This paper discusses the results of the aforementioned activities and describes the new recommendations made by this writer.

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