Embankments

An embankment is a raised linear structure of earth or other fill that carries infrastructure such as roads and railways or confines and protects land from flooding. Embankments are built to raise ground level above adjacent terrain, improve drainage, and provide space for transport corridors or flood defenses along rivers, coasts, and urban areas.

Common types include river or coastal embankments, often called levees or dikes, which prevent inundation by rivers or seas. Road and railway embankments elevate transportation routes, while agricultural or urban embankments may protect properties and create usable ground in flood-prone areas. Embankments can be constructed from earth, clay, sand, rock fill, or combinations and are sometimes faced with turf, concrete, or gabions for erosion resistance.

Design considerations include stability of slopes, seepage control, drainage and groundwater management, and settlement of foundation soils. A typical cross-section has a crest, sloping sides, and a toe at the base, with internal drainage systems such as perforated pipes and relief wells. Construction often involves cut-and-fill techniques, compaction, and, in urban settings, facing or lining.

Maintenance and monitoring are essential to prevent failure. Common issues are erosion of the sides, seepage or piping through the embankment, overtopping during floods, and slope instability after heavy rainfall. Remedial measures may include raising the crest, installing drainage, adding reinforcement, or rebuilding sections.

Historically, embankments have been central to flood control and land reclamation. The Netherlands developed extensive dike systems; in other regions, embankments support railways, major highways, and urban flood defenses. Modern practice emphasizes integrated design with hydrological analysis, geotechnical assessment, and environmental considerations.