Analysis of Sediment Dynamics in Ports: A Case Study from Umm Qasr-Basra for Sustainable Sediment Management

Abstract

Sedimentation processes are complex and interact with many Coupled Human and Natural Systems (CHANS). In ports, intensive commercial activities result in complicated sediment transport and accumulation processes. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate and analyze the sedimentation factors that may impact shipping activities within commercial ports. A case study has been conducted to investigate these factors in the northern port of Umm Qasr, Basra Governorate in Iraq. The results indicate that several factors increase erosion and sedimentation processes within the study site, including natural factors (climate, river, and tidal processes), and anthropogenic factors (ship movements). These factors have different influences in terms of the intensity of their impact, the amount and composition of sediment within the navigation channel, and the temporal variation in the activity of these factors. Precipitation in the surrounding region causes erosion of soft-fine-sediment that is carried in suspension toward the ports through tributary creeks and temporary rivers. Sediment distribution in the port has been worsened by human activities and tidal processes in the navigation channel. Consequently, the General Company of Ports in Iraq had to implement annual sediment control procedures to maintain the operational standards of the navigation channel. Although these measures are effective, they are greatly lacking efficiency due to high costs and execution difficulties. Therefore, studies are necessary and encouraged to further understand sediment dynamics in the port of Umm Qasr and to create the basis for establishing sustainable sediment management.