Exploring an option to the ‘Conventional Canal Lining’ by Evolving ‘Moulded Plastic Troughs’ – as a Pragmatic Solution

Abstract

After independence, India has achieved self-sufficiency in food grain production, developing irrigation systems with huge investment. Although we could achieve primary objective, the expectations have not been fully accomplished. Water distribution systems which have been implemented with conventional open channel system could achieve efficiency around 40%. Seepage through the canal beds and banks contribute losses to about 20–25%. The situation may still be worse as we have tapped majority of our surface water resources and left with diminishing sources for development; in other words, it is now inevitable to maximize efficient use of available water. One of the promising options is conceptualized with evolving “Moulded Plastic Trough” for canal lining, based on the fact that “Overhead water tanks” made of plastic material have been successfully adopted. This type of lining will be 100% leak proof, easy to construct being light weight, efficient in jointing, and saves time of construction and repairs, yet economically viable. Adopting for small discharge canals (about 30–300 l/s) where we lose major chunk of water through lining will save about 20% of water. Latest R&D in the field of plastic/polymer may still add to this concept to be more pragmatic. Authors discuss the pros and cons of conventional canal lining replacing with the concept of plastic trough including economic viability, establishing it as a promising solution.