ESTIMATION OF SEEPAGE LOSSES IN CANAL IRRIGATION SYSTEM: A CASE STUDY

Abstract

The seepage losses in irrigation system (head to outlets), specially with large conveyance system in alluvial plain in India are quite substantial, nearly 1/3rd of head discharge. The seepage loss depends upon many factors which vary from system to system. Earlier the irrigation system is considered from head to outlet, but as per Govt. of India, command area development program, the concept of irrigation system is now extended up to water course and field channels. Therefore now water courses are the ultimate link of conveyance network of irrigation system. The losses on water courses constitute a major portion of transit losses, during conveyance of irrigation water from source of farmer's field. Hence for getting optimum utilization of valuable water the saving of these losses are essential. The conveyance losses also vary from one element to another in the same system i.e. main canal, branch canal, distributory channel and minor channel. Besides these, substantial losses are also observed below outlet in water courses and field channel and application of water in fields. They also constitute nearly 1/3" of the supply at head. - The present study would involve the review of distribution of these losses in different reaches of canal network.