What is the main purpose of drainage?

The main purpose of drainage is to remove liquids, particularly excess water, from an area. This is essential in various contexts such as agriculture, construction, and landscaping. Effective drainage systems help prevent water accumulation that can lead to soil saturation, erosion, and damage to structures. By facilitating the flow of excess water away from fields or buildings, drainage contributes to maintaining optimal conditions for plant growth and the safety and integrity of infrastructure.

While collecting excess water sounds similar to the purpose of drainage, the focus of drainage systems is specifically on removing that water rather than simply gathering it. Providing fresh water is related to water supply systems rather than drainage, and maintaining humidity pertains to moisture management rather than the removal of liquids.