Ep 2. Those Damned Engineers

In this episode of Against the Odds, titled "Those Damned Engineers," viewers are taken on a journey through the construction of one of the most daring engineering feats of the 20th century. The story centers around the building of the Aswan High Dam in Egypt, and the incredible struggle that was necessary in order to make it a reality.

The episode begins with a brief history of the Nile River, emphasizing its importance to the people of Egypt both in ancient times and in the present day. As the narrator explains, the Nile is the lifeblood of Egypt's agriculture, providing the water necessary to grow crops and feed the population. However, throughout history, the river has also been a source of devastating floods that can wipe out entire communities and destroy the country's infrastructure.

To mitigate this risk, plans were drawn up in the mid-20th century to build the Aswan High Dam. The dam would be the largest in the world, standing over 550-feet tall and blocking the Nile River's flow of water completely. With construction beginning in the early 1960s, it was a massive undertaking that would require the efforts of some of the world's top engineers and construction workers.

As the episode progresses, viewers are introduced to the people who worked on the dam. We hear their personal stories and the incredible challenges they faced. One of the biggest hurdles was the building of the cofferdam, a temporary structure that was erected in order to dam the Nile and block the flow of water. The cofferdam was essential in order to allow workers to construct the dam itself, but the process of building it was fraught with danger. As the narrators explain, any mistake could result in the dam collapsing and a massive flood sweeping through the area.

Despite these risks, the team of engineers and workers pushed forward, and eventually the cofferdam was completed. The episode goes on to detail some of the other challenges that were faced during construction, including the need to relocate entire villages that would be submerged by the new reservoir that would form when the dam was completed.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning visuals of the dam and its surroundings, as well as interviews with experts in the field. The narrators provide historical context and detail on the engineering strategies that were employed during construction, making for a fascinating look at one of the most impressive engineering feats of the modern era.

Overall, "Those Damned Engineers" is a gripping and informative episode of Against the Odds that highlights the incredible bravery and ingenuity required to build the Aswan High Dam. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in engineering, history, or simply the fascinating story of one of the greatest construction projects ever undertaken.