Erer Irrigation Project Summary
Project Overview
The Erer Irrigation Project in Ethiopia aims to utilize annual river flows from the Erer River for irrigation development. The project includes an earthfill dam, reservoir, and an extensive canal network to serve a command area of 4,906 hectares (4,155 ha cultivable).
Key Components
Canal System
- Primary Canal: 14.4 km long, 3 m³/s capacity, 1:5000 slope
- Secondary Canals: S1-P (6.8 km) and S2-P (9.53 km)
- Tertiary & Quaternary Canals: Network for field distribution
- Design: Unlined trapezoidal sections with 1:1 side slopes
Irrigation Scheme
- Furrow irrigation using siphon tubes
- Block sizes of 40-100 hectares
- Road and drainage network integrated with canals
- Water quality suitable for irrigation (pH 8.1, SAR 0.30-0.54)
Structures
- Regulating Structures: Head regulators, cross regulators
- Cross Drainage: Aqueducts over Decho River
- Falls: Vertical drop falls (0.5m) on S1-P canal
- Escapes: Safety valves for surplus water release
- Bridges: For road crossings and access
Key Design Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Peak Water Requirement | 34.9 l/s per 100 ha |
| Overall Efficiency | 55% |
| Flexibility Factor | 15% |
| Permissible Velocity | 0.9-1.1 m/s (unlined canals) |
Implementation
The project is designed by Water Works Design & Supervision Enterprise in association with UjjPL Synergics Hydro (India) Pvt. Ltd., with feasibility completed in September 2007.