Irrigation System Study in International Basin

Abstract

Before taking up a comprehensive study of regional irrigation development, it is necessary to identify and understand the technological options, the physical process and the allocation of water resources to pertinent projects. Linear programming models have been used for such a reconnaissance study of the Indo‐Nepal region of the Ganga basin with boundary conditions by Bangladesh. The region is a very large system in terms of resources' potential, developmental options and associated constraints. The irrigation model study is carried out at the sub‐basins' level (Level I) and at the basin level (Level II). The issues analyzed at level I are: (1) Implications of scale of project developments, (2) implications of resource conservation measures such as reducing seepage and evaporation losses and improving irrigation efficiency, (3) implications of conjunctive surface water, natural recharge and artificial recharge use, and (4) implications of crop water demand. At level II the issue is the implication of water demand at Ferakke (by India and Bangladesh). The study identifies the operating constraints and relative impact of various issues and options on the irrigation development in physical terms.