What purpose do manholes serve in public works?

Manholes serve a crucial function in public works primarily related to inspection and maintenance. They provide access points to underground infrastructure such as sewer systems, stormwater drainage, and utility lines. This accessibility is essential for public works personnel to perform necessary inspections to ensure that these systems are functioning properly and to conduct maintenance or repairs when issues arise. Without manholes, it would be significantly more challenging to monitor the health of these systems, which could lead to larger problems if not addressed promptly.

While other options like water storage, traffic control, and wastewater treatment are vital aspects of public works, they do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of manholes. Manholes are not designed for water storage; instead, they facilitate access for maintenance. They also do not directly contribute to traffic control or wastewater treatment, although they may be part of systems that include elements of these functions.