(a) What is transportation by pipeline? (b) Explain any four advantages and four disadvantages of transportation by pipeline.

(a) What is transportation by pipeline?

Transportation by pipeline is the movement of liquids and gases, such as crude oil, refined petroleum products, natural gas and water, through a network of connected pipes from one place (for example an oil field or refinery) to another (for example a depot, port or consumer). The materials flow through the pipes under pressure with the aid of pumping stations.

(b) Advantages of transportation by pipeline

• It is cheap to operate once the pipeline has been laid, because it needs little labour and energy to move large volumes.
• It allows the continuous, uninterrupted flow of large quantities of liquids and gases over long distances.
• It is not affected by road traffic congestion or bad weather, so delivery is fast and reliable.
• It is safe from theft and damage since the goods travel underground and out of reach.

Disadvantages of transportation by pipeline

• The initial cost of laying the pipeline and building pumping stations is very high.
• It is limited to only liquids and gases and cannot carry solid goods or passengers.
• It is fixed in route and inflexible; it cannot be diverted easily to serve new locations.
• Leakages, bursts or sabotage (vandalism) can cause serious pollution, fire and huge losses.