Dubai is known for its grandeur and extravagance, with its towering skyscrapers and man-made islands. But there have been rumors circulating that these islands are sinking.
So, is there any truth to this Let’s find out.
The Palm Islands
The most famous of the man-made islands in Dubai are the Palm Islands. These are three artificial islands shaped like a palm tree and were built to increase Dubai’s coastline. The first island, Palm Jumeirah, was completed in 2006, followed by Palm Jebel Ali and Palm Deira.
The Construction Process
The construction of the Palm Islands involved dredging sand from the bottom of the Persian Gulf and using it to build up the islands. The sand was then sprayed with a chemical called NatSol, which hardens the sand and prevents erosion.
The Sinking Rumors
Despite the use of NatSol, there have been reports that parts of the Palm Jumeirah are sinking. This has led some to speculate that all three islands will eventually sink.
Causes of Sinking
There are several reasons why parts of the Palm Jumeirah may be sinking. One reason is due to the weight of buildings on the island. As more buildings were constructed on top of the sand, it put additional pressure on the island’s foundation.
Another reason could be due to natural settling. When an area is built up with new materials like sand, it takes time for it to settle naturally into place.
Measures Taken
To combat these sinking rumors, engineers have taken several measures to stabilize the island’s foundation. One method includes injecting grout into weak areas under buildings to strengthen them.
Additionally, engineers have started monitoring sea levels around Dubai more closely and have put in place measures to combat sea level rise, which could exacerbate the sinking problem.
Final Thoughts
While there have been reports of sinking in some areas of the Palm Jumeirah, it’s important to note that engineers are taking steps to prevent further sinking and stabilize the island’s foundation. So, for now, we can rest assured that the Palm Islands are not going anywhere.