Diversion channel

A diversion channel is an engineered channel that redirects river or flood flow away from its natural course, around a structure, or into a relief route. In river training and port works it carries flood discharge past a town or works site, diverts flow during in-river construction so the work can proceed dry behind a cofferdam, or bypasses a reach being deepened. Design fixes the channel cross-section and slope for the diverted discharge, with bank protection, revetment, or training walls to hold alignment and resist scour. It is distinct from a navigation channel: a diversion channel manages flow and sediment rather than passing ships.