Modification of the improved irrigation system in the old lands in Egypt

Abstract EN

The main objective of the Irrigation Improvement Project (IIP) is to increase the efficiency of the irrigation delivery system in old lands of the Nile valley and the Delta.

But, evaluation the improved irrigation system showed that there is a need for modification of the improved irrigation system.

So, the suggested approach in this research is a modification for the improved irrigation system, utilizing the advantages of both the traditional rotational and the improved irrigation distribution systems.

The main objective of the modification is to operate the distributary canals by conveying an adequate and dependable supply of water in equitable and efficient manner.

According to the suggested approach, earthen meskas are replaced by elevated concrete ones, which are rotationally operated under control of Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation.

The water is lifted to meskas only at specified hours each day of the on-period according to actual water requirement and the preferable working hours of farmers. Gravity flow is introduced through the outlets along the meskas to irrigate the lands.

Computer program was developed to facilitate utilizing the suggested approach for the operation of the distribution system.

The suggested approach was applied for Dakalt command area, (Kafr El- Sheikh Governorate), which represents the improved irrigation system.

The analysis of the results showed that adequate and dependable water distribution system was achieved in equitable and efficient manner to the water users.

Also, the suggested approach saved about 1% of the land, which could be cultivated, and reduced the harmful side effects of the irrigation on the environment.

The developed computer program could be utilized to select the optimum cropping pattern of the areas served by distributary canals according to the available water supply