Question

What are the demerits of tank irrigation?

Mention two demerits of tank irrigation.

What are the drawbacks of tanks as a form of irrigation?

Answer 1

During the dry season, a lot of tanks dry up and are unable to supply irrigation when it is most required. A major issue is silting of the tank bed, which necessitates frequent tank desilting. The vast area of shallow water loses a lot of water to evaporation, making it unusable for irrigation. Large tracts of arable land are covered by tanks. Other irrigation methods have been used in various places, and tank dry beds have been used again for farming. Transporting water from the tank to the field over the rocky terrain can occasionally be challenging.

Answer 2

1. Dependency on Rainfall: Tanks primarily rely on rainwater collection, so their effectiveness is greatly reduced during periods of low or irregular rainfall, leading to water shortages for irrigation.
2. High Maintenance and Siltation: Tanks often suffer from silt accumulation, which reduces their water storage capacity. Regular desilting and maintenance are needed, which can be costly and are sometimes neglected, reducing the efficiency of the system.