* Water supply: Rivers are a major source of water for drinking, irrigation, and industry.
* Transportation: Rivers have been used for transportation for centuries. They can be used to transport people and goods, and they can also be used to create canals.
* Power: Rivers can be used to generate hydroelectric power.
* Recreation: Rivers can be used for a variety of recreational activities, such as swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking.
* Ecosystem services: Rivers provide a number of ecosystem services, such as flood control, water filtration, and habitat for plants and animals.
* Flooding: Rivers can flood, which can cause damage to property and infrastructure.
* Pollution: Rivers can be polluted by human activities, such as industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and sewage.
* Erosion: Rivers can cause erosion, which can lead to the loss of land and damage to infrastructure.
* Navigation hazards: Rivers can be hazardous to navigate, especially in areas with strong currents or shallow water.
* Disease: Rivers can be a breeding ground for diseases, such as malaria and cholera.
