O&M ASPECTS OF SMALL TANK IRRIGATION PROJECTS - SOME CASE STUDIES

Abstract

A large number of tank irrigation projects have been implemented in India (particularly in central and southern part of India) and Sri Lanka. The minor irrigation works were earlier maintained and operated by village communities. However, during British period and after independence, community managed irrigation system collapsed and 0 & M works have been carried out by the Government Agencies, serious 0 & M problems exist in many of the irrigation systems. Participatory Irrigation Management is now being emphasized to solve 0&M problems. This study covers 0 & M aspects of four Tank Irrigation Projects in Madhya Pradesh (India) and three Rehabilitation Projects in Sri Lanka along with comparative study of irrigation management. The sample projects in India are in transition stage and co-study area in Sri Lanka is almost fifty years old. The study covers comparative study of 0 & M aspects of Tank Irrigation Projects in India and Sri Lanka. The aspects of O&M which have been analyzed are structural organization for operation and maintenance, implementation aspects,, type of O&M practices, status of Water User Association/Farmer Organization , participatory type irrigation management, farmers problems, training and guidance, monitoring and evaluation. Water delivery performance of the Tank Irrigation Projects in Sagar district (MP-India) has also been analyzed for the situation when canals are in full operation stage...