Waal

Waal is the main distributary of the Rhine in the Netherlands and a central component of the Rhine–Meuse–Scheldt delta. In the Dutch portion of the delta, the Rhine divides into two main channels: the Nederrijn to the east and the Waal to the west. The Waal begins at the Pannerdensch Kanaal, where water is diverted from the Rhine, and generally flows southwest across the central Netherlands.

The river passes several towns and cities and forms an important inland waterway. It is closely integrated with the Dutch system of flood defense and navigation, featuring dikes, locks, weirs, and canal connections that regulate water levels and enable commercial shipping. The Waal serves as a vital link for freight traffic between the Rhine basin and the western Netherlands, connecting to other branches of the Rhine–Meuse–Scheldt system that lead to the port of Rotterdam and the North Sea.

Hydrology and management of the Waal are dominated by Dutch water authorities and longstanding engineering works designed to balance flood risk with the needs of navigation and agriculture. Over time, the river has been straightened and regulated to improve safety and commerce, contributing to the broader Delta Works projects that protect western Netherlands from flooding.

In addition to its geographic meaning, the term Waal may also refer to a surname in various cultures.

See also: Rhine, Meuse, Merwede, Delta Works, Rhine–Meuse–Scheldt.