Problems in Operation and Management of Farmer Managed Irrigation Systems in Nepal : A Case Study of Kumroj FMIS in Chitwan District

Abstract

This study was carried out during April-May, 2005 to explore the management and operation of the Kurmej FMIS, one of the Farmer Managed Irrigation Systems operating (FMIS) in three village development committees (VDCs) of the eastem Chitwan district, Nepal. The Kurru/ej FMIS eornmittee is responsible for the operational and managerial affairs of the system while the East Rapti Water Users Association is the apex body that provides majorlexternal financial help for this system including all the FMISs in that area, This system delivers service to the beneficiaries on an unbiased and transparent manner. The rights, rules, and duties related to' operation and management are entirely under the control of the water users themselves. In this system, water in each branch canal is allocated depending upon the area and type of land to be irrigated as well as the season. The irregular water supply resulting from the unlined eanals is the major constraint encountered in the ¢ ffeetive service delivery of this system. Further, the tail users receive less ofthe irTigation water as compared to the head users. The practice of labor mobilization based on households utilizes little technology. Proper repair and maintenance as well as canal improvement work is ofutmost important to reduce the conveyance loss. The administrative work, especially communication, is heavily dependent on Panipale (water guards), hindering the smooth operation of system. Therefore, restmcturing the administrative framework as well as improving the canals is of utmost importance for the sustainable and effective functioning ofKumej FMIS. Klaytvords: FA4ISL' }vater distribution; canat ttezpair; Panipale; head useiT; tail users