Evaluation of hydraulic efficiency of lined irrigation channels – A case study from Punjab, Pakistan

Indus Basin Irrigation System (IBIS) in Pakistan is the backbone of agriculture in the country. The IBIS provides irrigation support to agricultural lands across the country; however, hydraulic efficiency of the water conveyance system is impacted due to seepage losses. The lining of irrigation channels is considered a potential solution for improving hydraulic efficiency. Therefore, this study explores the impact of canal lining on the hydraulic efficiency of the canals in the Punjab province of Pakistan. Overall, 14 channels/distributaries/minors (total length 226 km) were monitored in terms of hydraulic performance in different irrigation zones. Hydraulic, geometrical, and socioeconomic parameters of channel/distributaries/minors including roughness coefficient, sediments, flow velocity, wetted parameter, breaches, theft cases, bed, side slope, water surface profile, hydraulic radius, crop yield, and vegetation growth area have been experimentally observed. Obtained results have been compared with the design and pre-lining data. Ten seepage tests using the inflow -outflow method and eight seepage tests using the ponding method were conducted to estimate seepage losses. Results indicate that almost all the parameters varied from the design values. A detailed comparison of the socioeconomic parameters has been carried out. Results from seepage tests show an approximately 78% reduction in losses. HIGHLIGHTS Canal lining has reduced seepage losses by ∼78%.; Built cross-sections are ∼5% bigger than design cross-sections.; Concrete lining (1:2:4 P.C.C.) is more suitable for future canal lining.; Froma socioeconomic view, canal lining improved equity and reliability of water distribution.; The useful physical life of 1:2:4 P.C.C. lining is 30–50 years, brick lined ∼20–25 years, and protected geosynthetics more than 50 years.;