Analysis on Influences of Nanshatou Passage on the Deepwater Navigation Channel of the Changjiang Estuary

Based on the data of water depth in Nanshatou Passage, and the flow spilt ratio of the North Channel and the South Channel, the reasons for the sediment deposition in the Deepwater Navigation Channel of the Changjiang Estuary are explored. The sediment deposition in the Deepwater Navigation Channel of the Changjiang Estuary is affected by multi-factors, among these factors; the influences of the development of the Nanshatou Passage are significant. The development of the Nanshatou Passage leads to the increase of the ebb flow discharge and the southern bank of the South Channel scoured, the scoured sediment is carried by the ebb flow to the northern bank of the South Channel, and is silted in the entrance reach of the North Passage, which decreases the ebb flow volume entering into the Deepwater Navigation Channel. On the other hand, the Coriolis force and V-shaped diversion dike at the head of the Deepwater Navigation Channel are also key factors on effect of the Deepwater Navigation Channel.