Contents preface (VII) introduction 1—37

6.5. OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF CANAL IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
Operation and maintenance of an irrigation and drainage (I and D) system implies management of the system. The plan of operation and management (POM) or the management plan includes a set of documents and instructions, organisation charts, work procedures and rules (including coordination with other disciplines), programmes and schedules which aim at achieving efficient and optimal functioning of the irrigation system. POM is not a rule book but a set of guidelines. POM is not static but dynamic and may require updating during project implementation, post-

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implementation period of the project (in the light of advances in science and technology, management techniques and the experience gained over the years) in the operation and maintenance of the system.

The operation and maintenance (O and M) unit (or division or designated agency for the formulation of POM) must commence very early in the project planning phase (for aspects such as selection of the conveyance system or determination of the agricultural activities in relation to their costs or training of personnel and farmers) and should continue through the planning, design (for aspects such as detailing the scheme of operation whether regulated/ unregulated supply remote/on-site control, storage requirement etc. ; overall conveyance/delivery system ; the control, monitoring and communication system, specific O and M offices, inspection houses, shops, yards and related features), construction (for installing the O and M organisation in the field, commissioning of project facilities and transferring responsibility from construction to O and M), commissioning, and operation phases.
Performance analysis of major and medium irrigation projects completed in the post-independence period with huge public money has revealed that the contemplated objectives and benefits have not been achieved in several cases. A proper Plan for Operation and Maintenance (29) is, therefore, necessary to

• 
  achieve stipulated levels of project services including maintenance at minimum achievable cost
  

• 
  achieve optimum use of canal water
  

• 
  provide detailed O and M guidelines during various anticipated scenarios of water availability, including equitable water distribution upto the tail-end of the system, and
  

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  effect efficient coordination of staff, equipment, physical and financial resources and related disciplines, active involvement of farmers etc.
  

2.