The Kimbulwana Oya Irrigation Scheme: an approach to improved system management

This case study describes the problems which existed in the scheme prior to its rehabilitation in 1979 and the associated irrigation management innovations introduced by the author, who was assigned as a technical assistant by the Irrigation Department that year. Some of the management innovations included the provision of a simplified form of technical guidance to farmers and maintenance of the system through a Water Issue Board. By gaining the confidence of the farmers and the various line agencies working in the area, the author was able to introduce a systematic rotational distribution of water, advance the cultivation calendar, and increase cropping intensity. He was also able to motivate the farmers to take over the responsibility for the maintenance of the system from the government, and to continue to improve the physical and operational condition of the system.