A barge is a flat-bottomed boat designed primarily for transporting goods on rivers and canals. Unlike other vessels, barges are not typically powered by their own engines; instead, they are often towed or pushed by tugboats. They can carry large loads, making them an efficient choice for moving bulk materials like coal, grain, and construction supplies. Barges come in various sizes and types, including cargo barges, tank barges for liquids, and hopper barges for loose materials. They play a crucial role in inland waterway transport, providing an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to road and rail transport.