Performance evaluation of water delivery system of Katepurna irrigation project

Abstract

Efficient management of canal-based irrigation systems is essential for ensuring reliable water supply, crop productivity and sustainable use of limited water resources. This study evaluates the performance of the water delivery system of the Katepurna Irrigation Project, Maharashtra, using five performance indicators—adequacy, efficiency, equity, dependability and overall performance index (OPI). Data from 27 canal outlets across five Rabi seasons (2018-2019 to 2022-2023) were analysed by comparing actual water deliveries with crop water requirements estimated through the FAO Penman-Monteith method, USDA-SCS effective rainfall approach, and crop coefficient (Kc) values. Results showed significant spatial and temporal variations in water distribution, with recurring under-delivery during peak demand months and excessive delivery in early and late irrigation periods. Adequacy and efficiency generally fell under the “fair” performance class, while equity and dependability were consistently “poor” across most years, indicating uneven and unreliable water supply. The OPI values revealed an overall “fair” performance only in 2018-2019, whereas the remaining four years exhibited “poor” performance. The findings highlight critical issues in scheduling, delivery control and canal operation, underscoring the need for improved management strategies to enhance reliability, uniformity and water-use efficiency in similar canal irrigation systems.