HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF IRRIGATION STRUCTURES IN INDIA

Abstract

Irrigation has played an important rolein the development and progress of civilization. Most of the old civilizations therefore developed in the river valleyes. Irrigation structures related with development of water resources have been constructed in great numbers. In this 'thesis historical development of irrigation structures in India in regard to technical, construction and material development is presented. Irrigation systems constructed in ancient and medieval period, 19th century and pre independence period of 20th centry are covered. Technical development •=in regard to storage works, earth dams, and gravity dams; Canal head works; Canals & Canal structures are presented. Financing policy of the irrigation systems and their effect on the construction of these projects is described. Most of the large perennicil canal systems and permanent headworks were constructed after middle of the 19th century_ Silt theories were developed for the design of stable canals in India. Design principles based on seepage theory were developed for the weirs on permeable foundations.