The irrigation water demand is increasing day by day with increase in population. Scarcity of water, its non-availability at right time and its inefficient utilization are amongst the main factors causing low crop-yields. To overcome inefficient water use and to cope with increasing water demands for irrigation, sprinkler irrigation technology was indigenized in the country.
Introduction
The irrigation water demand is increasing day by day with increase in population. Scarcity of water, its non-availability at right time and its inefficient utilization are amongst the main factors causing low crop-yields. To overcome inefficient water use and to cope with increasing water demands for irrigation, sprinkler irrigation technology was indigenized in the country.
Technology Development and Demonstration
The Water Resources Research Institute of NARC, in collaboration with MECO Pvt. Limited, Lahore, developed a complete range of raingun sprinkler irrigation systems, including diesel, electric and PTO-driven pumping systems, couplers, other fittings and joints. To keep the systems portable, the pumping unit alongwith power unit (diesel engine or electric motor) was mounted on a trolley. The raingun sprinkler irrigation systems were installed throughout the country for demonstration of the technology. The practical on-job
trainings in designing, layout, installation, operation and maintenance of the sprinkler irrigation systems have been imparted to the scientists/engineers of provincial On Farm Water Management, agricultural and engineering universities, NGOs and progressive farmers. Training modules included manufacturers’ specifications for different systems. Also, hydraulic performance of pumping units of the sprinkler systems provided by OFWM, Punjab in Pothwar plateau were evaluated. Training and technical support was also provided to the OFWM, NWFP in initiating the sprinkler irrigation project in the province.
Technology Adoption
In Barani areas, these systems are being used for supplemental and life-saving irrigations to fruits, vegetables and field crops. The pre-sowing irrigation (Rouni) is also being applied with this system for timely planting of crops. In the Khanpur Dam area, the raingun sprinkler irrigation system is being used for establishment of orchards, efficient irrigation of fruits and vegetables, washing of Lychi and citrus, and for cooling and frost control in orchards. The raingun sprinkler irrigation systems have been used in Muzaffargarh, Bahawalpur and Hasilpur areas for stabilization of sand-dunes and irrigation to fruit and field crops. Initial investment requirements and un-reliable electricity are restricting wider adoption of this technology.
Key References
Yasin, M., S. Ahmad, Z. Hussain, P.M. Moshabbir and M. M. Ahmad. (2003). Optimum water utilization in Pakistan: Adaptation of pressurized irrigation systems. Journal of Science and Technology Policy and Scientometrics, 2: 43-62.
Yasin, M., S. Ahmad, M. M. Ahmad and A. Iqbal. (2001). Hydraulic performance of locally made raingun sprinkler systems under different pressure and discharge functions. Science Vision (COMSATS), 6: 1-10.
