nëndheshje

Nëndheshje refers to the process of land subsidence, a gradual sinking or settling of the ground surface. This phenomenon can occur naturally or be induced by human activities. Natural causes include tectonic plate movement, the compaction of sediments over geological time, and the dissolution of soluble bedrock like limestone, which can lead to sinkholes.

Human activities are often a significant contributor to nëndheshje. Excessive withdrawal of groundwater is a primary driver, as the removal of water reduces the pressure supporting underground soil and rock layers, causing them to compact. Similarly, the extraction of oil and natural gas can lead to pore pressure reduction and subsequent subsidence. Mining operations, particularly underground mining, can also cause the surface to sink as the earth above collapses or settles into excavated voids. The draining of wetlands and peatlands can also result in subsidence due to the decomposition of organic matter and the loss of water content, leading to significant volume reduction.

The consequences of nëndheshje can be substantial. It can damage infrastructure such as buildings, roads, and pipelines, and exacerbate flooding in coastal and low-lying areas by reducing the natural elevation of the land. In agricultural regions, subsidence can affect drainage patterns and crop yields. Monitoring and understanding the causes of nëndheshje are crucial for mitigating its impacts and managing land resources effectively.