Research assi[s]tance for IWASRI capacity building

International Waterlogging and Salinity Research Institute (IWASRI) was created with the broad objective to conduct, manage and coordinate research on waterlogging and salinity. The Dutch Government, through its bilateral cooperation programme, provided support to IWASRI. With a long twelve years (1988-2000) cooperation, IWASRI research was carried out with the collaboration of International Land Reclamation and Improvement (ILRI) of The Netherlands. During this period IWASRI staff carried out many studies with the technical and financial assistance of ILRI staff. Shallow drainage can reduce the drainable surplus, reduce the need for irrigation supply and cost of installation. Evaluation of Pipe Drainage Systems showed that the field drainage design could be decreased from initial 3.5 mm/d to the value of 1.5 mm/d. Field experiments showed that geo-synthetic as drain envelope material could safely replace the usual gravel envelope materials. Use of synthetic envelopes were much more economical compared with the granular envelopes. Spatially varying drainage needs can be detected through application of groundwater modeling approach. Due to O&M problems drainage benefits as expected at the time of design cannot be fully achieved. Farmers might be ready to pump from pipe drainage sump for irrigation, but they will not pump continuously for drainage. Good communication with the farming community throughout the project is essential for project success. There is lack of understanding to involve small farmers in the planning, design and O&M of system. Interceptor drains and canal lining cannot prevent the need of installation of drainage system. Due to excessive operational cost, the interceptors do not justify the large investments. Marginal and hazardous water can be used for reclamation of salt-affected soils with the application of gypsum/organic matter and leaching. The joint research conducted by IWASRI/NRAP Engineers/Scientists has improved knowledge and capabilities significantly. IWASRI research shows its value for money.