1Mr.vishal Bhalchadndra Desale and 1Dr.Shivaji Bansilal Patil–
1Late Annasaheb R.D.Deore Arts and Science College Mhasadi Tal-Sakri, Dist-Dhule,vishaldesalesir@gmail.com
Abstract
The Andhra river basin is famous for the ‘Phad’ irrigation syste. The total length of the Pazara river is 138 km, and its basin covers approximately 3257 sq. km. It is an important river in Dhule district. The Kan river is its major tributary.The Phad irrigation system is a traditional and community-managed water distribution method predominantly found in the Sakri tehsil of Maharashtra, India. This indigenous system has been in use for centuries, serving as a testament to the creativity of local farmers in managing limited water resources. The Phad system entails the diversion of river water through a network of canals and distributaries to irrigate agricultural fields. This article examines the historical significance, operational dynamics, and socio-economic implications of the Phad irrigation system in Sakri tehsil. It also brings to light the challenges that the system faces in the contemporary era and the urgent need for its preservation and revitalization.
Keywords
Pazara river ,Phad Irrigation,Community-Based Irrigation ,Traditional Water Management, Sakri Tehsil, Maharashtra, Sustainable Agriculture.
Objectives:
The objective of this article is …..
1. To present an extensive overview of the Phad irrigation system in Sakri tehsil, focusing on its historical and cultural significance, and its role in promoting sustainable agriculture.
2.To analyze the effects of phad irrigation system on farmers life of sakri tehsil.
3.To identify the challenges that the system confronts and propose solutions for its conservation and modernization.
Introduction
Agriculture and water have a close relationship. Water is a crucial contribution to the agricultural sector. In Maharashtra, insufficient and irregular rainfall often leads to the loss of crops that are almost ready for harvest. Consequently, numerous droughts occur. Naturally, artificial water supply becomes necessary to save the crops. In Maharashtra, attempts have been made since ancient times to supply water to agriculture through wells and canals. The Phad system is one of the irrigation methods that existed in Maharashtra in the past. The Phad system of Khandesh is a method of flow irrigation
About Sakri Tehsil
Sakri tehsil serves as an administrative subdivision located within the Dhule district of Maharashtra. The elevation varies from a low of 128 meters to a high of 1,558 meters, with an average elevation of approximately 470 meters. The region is primarily composed of Deccan Trap Basalt dating from the Upper Cretaceous to Lower Eocene periods, often intersected by dykes.Annual maximum temperatures can soar to 42°C, while minimum temperatures hover around 6.5°C. The eastern region is classified as a scarcity zone, experiencing low and erratic rainfall of about 500 mm, whereas the western region acts as a transition zone with increased rainfall ranging from 700 to 750 mm. Major Rivers: The Panzara River serves as the main lifeline for the tehsil, originating in Pimpalner in western Sakri. Other notable rivers and streams include the Burai, Kan, and Jamkhedi. Fertile black cotton soil is prevalent along the riverbanks. Approximately 30.18% of the area is covered by forests, and around 45% of the land is utilized for cultivation. Key crops cultivated in the region include bajri, cotton, groundnut, and wheat. Despite facing numerous challenges, the farmers of Sakri tehsil have successfully managed to grow crops by utilizing the Phad irrigation system. The tehsil is distinguished by its dependence on traditional knowledge and community collaboration, both of which are vital for the efficient functioning of the Phad system.
What is Phad irrigation ?:
The Phad irrigation system is a traditional water management technique that has its origins in the medieval period. It involves the establishment of small diversion weirs, known as bandharas, across rivers to channel water into a network of canals and distributaries. These canals, referred to as Phads, systematically and equitably distribute water to agricultural fields. The Pazara river basin is famous for the ‘Phad’ irrigation system. This river originates in the Sahyadri range at an altitude of 600 meters above sea level. Its source is located between 20°52′ North latitude and 73°55′ East longitude. The Panjhra river flows eastward for 99 km. Then, turning north, it joins the Tapi river near Mudawad and Sindkheda. The total length of the Panzara river is 138 km, and its basin covers approximately 3257 sq. km. It is an important river in Dhule district. The Kan river is its major tributary. Although the banks of these rivers are higher near their source, the height decreases in the plateau region. Moreover, there are rocks in the riverbeds at various places. Previously, these rivers flowed throughout the year. Therefore, to utilize the flowing water for agriculture, the people of this basin have built stone dams of 2 to 3 meters in height in the riverbeds. Most of the villages along the riverbanks in this basin have dams, and the Phad system exists on these dams. It would be more appropriate to call the Panzara a river of dams. According to the Panzaraproject, there are 45 dams on this river. Around 1962, the Phad system was in operation on 30 dams from Pankheda to Betawad.
Positive aspects of the Phad Irrigation System
1.The Phad system allows for water distribution considering the water requirements of each crop. For example, the Kamod variety of rice requires water daily. The next priority is sugarcane, followed by other crops
2. Water is supplied to a continuous area of land through a single channel, and all the land receives equal water. This prevents water wastage, and the water does not spread to scattered fields through numerous channels.
3.The crop rotation system allows the land to rest. Despite this system being in use for hundreds of years, the land has never become degraded or saline.
4.There are separate employees for water distribution. They distribute water in turns according to the instructions of the chairman. Therefore, there is no excessive or unauthorized use of water. Moreover, everyone receives equal water.
5. Since the Phad institutions carry out minor repairs to the dam and canals in this system, the government does not have to incur any expenses for them.
6. The Phad system depends on gravity for the flow of water, which lessens the requirement for external energy sources machinary and tools.
7.This system is designed to be uncomplicated and cost-efficient, requiring very little maintenance and few empoyes to maintain
8 The management of the system is conducted by local communities, who collectively decide on the distribution of water. it increse co operation between villagers
The Phad system has significantly contributed to the cultivation of crops like wheat, millet, and pulses in Sakri tehsil. It has also been pivotal in sustaining the ecological balance of the region.
Challenges encountered by the Phad irrigation system
While the Phad irrigation system is effective, it faces several challenges in the contemporary era. These challenges are as follows:
1.Deforatation : twenty years ago, due to good forests cover the watershed area of the Panzara valley, there was a perennial flow in the river. But nowdays deforestation and an increase in wells and boarwells the groundwater level decreased. The river flow diminished and now lasts only 5 to 6 months.
2.Fragmention of Holdings : After 1950, population growth necessitated the fragmentation of already small landholdings. The one hectare of permanently irrigated land owned by a farmer was divided among his 2-3 children, creating an even more difficult situation.
3.Lacking Mmaintenance– Grass and bushes grew in the irrigation channels; silt accumulated in the dams, yet no cleaning was done. Farmers along the riverbanks even encroached upon the silt accumulated in the dams.
4.Availability of Private Irrigation Facility : various government schemes providing easy loans and subsidies for wells became available. Then, farmers who depended on public irrigation channels and couldn’t afford their own wells quickly dug wells, and once they had their own private resource, the publicly managed Phad system began to be increasingly neglected.
5.Construction of Dams :from 1970, the construction of government dams on Panzara and kan river began .Latipada and Akkalpada on Pazara and malngaon on Kan river is good example of it.Since these projects, the government gained control over water of rivers.
6. Climate Change: Erratic rainfall patterns and extended droughts have significantly influenced the availability of water in rivers throughout the year for irrigation purposes. The unpredictability of the rainy season makes it challenging for farmers to depend on phad irrigation.
7. Changes in Land Use Patterns: In numerous towns within Sakri tehsil, individuals residing along the riverbanks strive to build close to the river. They establish houses and factories near the riverbank. The growth of urban areas has encroached upon agricultural land and water resources.
8. Insufficient Government Support: The phad system has received scant attention from policymakers. Government initiatives favouring drip irrigation and the construction of ponds on farms have led to insufficient funding and infrastructure development.
9. Decline in Traditional Knowledge: For the effective operation of the daily irrigation schedule in the phad system, traditional agricultural knowledge is necessary. Nevertheless, the younger generation is progressively moving away from agriculture and rural communities, resulting in a loss of traditional knowledge.
To address these challenges, it is essential to modernize the Phad system. This could involve integrating modern technology, such as sensors and automated gates, to enhance water management. Moreover, government support and community awareness initiatives are vital for the preservation and revitalization of this traditional system.
Conclustion
The Phad irrigation system found in Sakri tehsil is a notable example of traditional water management that has supported agriculture in a difficult environment for centuries. The block system established for water distribution from dams in 1903-1904 was modelled after the Phad system. The recommendation made by the Bombay Inquiry Committee in 1938 to create farmers’ cooperative societies or water panchayat institutions for water distribution was also influenced by the Phad system. This method had been carefully observed by a prominent engineer, Sir M. Visvesvaraya., who had resided in Dhule for some period . Since the early 20th century, the Phad system has been regarded as a benchmark for water distribution from dams. It is essential that all possible actions are taken today to protect this Phad system, which was innovated by Indians, fosters collaboration, and is recognized for its fair water distribution.
References:
1. Pawar, S. (2015). Community-Based Water Management: A Case Study of Phad Irrigation in Maharashtra. International Journal of Rural Studies.
2. Deshpande, R. S. (2005). Traditional Water Management Systems in Maharashtra. Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics.
3. Mishra, A. (2001). The Radiant Raindrops of Rajasthan. Research Foundation for Science, Technology and Ecology.
4. Agarwal, A., & Narain, S. (1997). Dying Wisdom: Rise, Fall and Potential of India’s Traditional Water Harvesting Systems. Centre for Science and Environment.
5.Government of Maharashtra. (2010). Report on Traditional Irrigation Systems in Maharashtra. Department of Agriculture.
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