Afghanistan Water, Agriculture and Technology
Transfer Program
Balkh Watershed - Diagnostic Analysis Report
Based on a Two-Week Research and Training Program by the Afghanistan Water,
Agriculture and Technology Transfer (AWATT) Project in June 2009
December 2009
This publication was produced for review by the United States Agency for International
Development. It was prepared by the Afghanistan Water, Agriculture and Technology
Transfer (AWATT) team of NMSU and partner institutions CSU, UIUC and SIUC.
AWATT Balkh Watershed Diagnostic Analysis Report
Authority
Prepared for USAID/Afghanistan under Cooperative Agreement No. 306-A-00-08-00506
awarded 03 March 2008, entitled Afghanistan Water, Agriculture and Technology Transfer
(AWATT).
This document was completed in partial fulfillment of Clause 2a of the Award Document for
Cooperative Agreement No. 306-A-00-08-00506 awarded 03 March 2008, entitled Afghanistan
Water, Agriculture and Technology Transfer (AWATT). The views expressed and opinions
contained in this report are those of the NMSU AWATT team and are not intended as
statements of policy of USAID.
Prepared by:
NMSU-AWATT Team with CSU, UIUC, and SIUC
Credits
The preliminary work plan described in this document is based on the NMSU-AWATT Technical
Proposal, as revised, submitted February 4, 2008 in response to USAID Request for Application No.
306-07-020
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Table of Contents
ABBREVIATIONS AND TERMS ...................................................................................................... 6
Acronyms ..................................................................................................................................... 6
Glossary ....................................................................................................................................... 6
Technical Terms and Abbreviations ............................................................................................ 6
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................... 7
AWATT: An Introduction ............................................................................................................. 7
AWATT Balkh Watershed Diagnostic Analysis ............................................................................ 7
Water Supply and Management Practices in the Balkh Ab River Basin...................................... 8
Crop Water Demand and Irrigation Supply ................................................................................. 9
Agriculture ................................................................................................................................... 9
Conclusions and Recommendations ......................................................................................... 10
SECTION I: Water Supply Management Practices in the Balkh Ab River Basin ...................... 12
Overview of the Balkh Ab Watershed ....................................................................................... 12
Figure 1.1: Location of Balkh Province Watersheds .........................................................................................
Figure 1.2: The Nahr-e Shahi Canal and the Alluvial Fan Along the Balkh River ........................................
Balkh Ab River Flow ................................................................................................................... 14
Figure 1.3: Flow of Balkh River at Rabat-i-Bala from 1964-1978 (Source: Afghan Government Central
Statistics) ...........................................................................................................................................................14
Figure 1.4: Variations in Relative Water Levels of the Balkh River, February 2008 to May 2009
(Source: MEW, Mazar-e-Sharif) .........................................................................................................................
Measurement of Stream Flows and Water Use ........................................................................ 15
Figure 1.5: Satellite Map of the Sampled Areas ...........................................................................................15
Figure 1.6: Monthly Flow Volume of Rabat-i-Bala .......................................................................................16
Figure 1.7: Monthly Flow Volume of Darya Suf River ......................................................................................
Figure 1.8: Darya Suf River Flow Distribution for All Years ........................................................................17
Figure 1.9: Darya Suf River Flow Distribution (Wet Years) .........................................................................17
Figure 1.10: Darya Suf River Flow Distribution (Average Years) ................................................................18
Canal Level Water Management Practices and Supply............................................................. 18
Table 1.1: Service Area, Number of Offtakes and Observed Discharge of Sampled Canals ..................19
Balkh River Irrigation Canals ..................................................................................................... 19
Table 1.2: Balkh River Canals and Service Areas with Water Rights .........................................................19
Water Losses and Irrigation Supply ........................................................................................... 20
Table 1.3: Conveyance Losses in the Sampled Canals of the Balkh River ................................................20
Watercourse Cleaning ............................................................................................................... 20
Figure 1.11: Frequency of Canal Cleaning By Canal ....................................................................................21
Figure 1.12: Frequency of Canal Cleaning By Location in Canal ...............................................................21
Figure 1.13: Average Person-Days Spent Cleaning at the Head, Middle and Tail Reaches of the Canal
............................................................................................................................................................................22
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Figure 1.14: Percentage of Days Spent Cleaning the Canal .......................................................................22
Night Irrigation .......................................................................................................................... 22
Figure 1.15: Differences in Irrigation Practices at Night .............................................................................23
Land Leveling ............................................................................................................................. 23
Figure 1.16: Percentage of Farms with Poor Land Leveling ........................................................................23
Duration of Water Application .................................................................................................. 23
Table 1.4: Water Application Practiced by Farmers in the Service Area of Sampled Canals .................24
Water Distribution and Allocation: Adequacy and Reliability .................................................. 24
Table 1.5: Tertiary Channels Service Area, Allocated and Observed Water Share at the Siagard Canal
............................................................................................................................................................................25
Table 1.6: Tertiary Channels Service Area, Allocated and Observed Water Share at the Mirzae Canal
............................................................................................................................................................................25
Table 1.7: Tertiary Channels Service Area, Allocated and Observed Water Share at the Balkh Canal26
Figure 1.19: Survey Results of Reported Water Sufficiency ........................................................................27
Water Management: The Role of the Mirab ............................................................................. 28
Government and Community Contributions ............................................................................ 28
Structural Improvements and Maintenance Requirements ..................................................... 29
Major Water Issues ................................................................................................................... 30
Performance Assessment: Conclusions and Recommendations .............................................. 31
SECTION II: Crop Water Demand And Irrigation Supply........................................................ 34
Introduction............................................................................................................................... 34
Potential Evapo-Transpiration and Precipitation ...................................................................... 34
Figure 2.1: Monthly Potential Evapo-Transpiration (ETo) and Precipitation (PPt) in Mazar-e-Sharif 35
Crop Evapo-Transpiration ......................................................................................................... 35
Figure 2.2: Daily Minimum, Maximum and Average Crop Evapo-Transpiration (ETo) of Major Crops
in Mazar-e-Sharif .............................................................................................................................................36
Depth of Water Application ...................................................................................................... 36
Figure 2.3: Estimated Depth of Water Application ......................................................................................37
Net Seasonal Irrigation Requirements of Crops ........................................................................ 37
Potential Evapo-Transpiration and Water Allowance ............................................................... 38
Crop Water Demand and Supply ............................................................................................... 40
Plate 2.1: The Nahr-e Shahi Canal Headwork on the Balkh River ............................................................40
Plate 2.2: Construction of the Balkh Canal Offtake From Siagard Canal ....................................................
Figure 2.7: Crop Water Demand and Irrigation Supply for the Siagard Canal ........................................42
Figure 2.8: Crop Water Demand and Irrigation Supply for the Mirzae Canal .........................................42
Figure 2.9: Crop Water Demand and Irrigation Supply for the Balkh Canal ...........................................43
Plate 2.3: Collection of Flow Measurements ................................................................................................43
SECTION III: Agriculture ...................................................................................................... 44
SECTION III: Agriculture ...................................................................................................... 44
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Introduction............................................................................................................................... 44
Landholding and Tenancy Status............................................................................................... 45
Table 3.1: Landholding by Location Along the Canals ................................................................................45
Figure 3.1: Tenancy Status of the Farmers at all Canal Service Areas ..........................................................
Figure 3.2: Tenancy Status of Farmers at Siagard Canal Service Area ......................................................46
Table 3.2: Average Land Holdings and Cultivated Area During Summer And Winter Seasons Per
Household (2008-2009) ...................................................................................................................................46
Fallow Land................................................................................................................................ 46
Figure 3.3: Percentage of Fallow Land in the Three Sampled Canals .......................................................47
Cropping Patterns...................................................................................................................... 47
Cropping Calendar ..................................................................................................................... 47
Table 3.3: Cropping Calendar.........................................................................................................................48
Figure 3.4: Winter Cropping Pattern at the Siagard Canal Service Area, 2008-2009 ..............................49
Figure 3.5: Summer Cropping Pattern at the Siagard Canal Service Area, 2009 .....................................49
Figure 3.6: Winter Cropping Pattern at Balkh Canal Service Area, 2008-2009 .......................................50
Figure 3.7: Summer Cropping Pattern at Balkh Canal Service Area, 2009 ...............................................50
Figure 3.8: Winter Cropping Pattern at Mirzae Canal Service Area, 2008-2009 .....................................51
Figure 3.9: Summer Cropping Pattern at Mirzae Canal Service Area, 2009.............................................51
Major Crop Yields ...................................................................................................................... 52
Table 3.4: Yields of Major Crops Grown in the Command Areas of the Sampled Canals ......................52
Table 3.5: Range of Crops in the Command Areas of the Sampled Canals .............................................52
Improved Seed .......................................................................................................................... 53
Livestock .................................................................................................................................... 53
Figure 3.10: Number of Livestock per Household (HH) in the Command Area of the Sampled Canals
............................................................................................................................................................................53
Figure 3.12: Livestock Per Jerib Across Sampled Canals ..................................................................................
Figure 3.11: Livestock Per Farm Across the Sampled Canals ..........................................................................
Figure 3.13: Livestock Per Farm Across Location..........................................................................................55
Figure 3.14: Livestock Per Jerib Across Location...........................................................................................55
Important Factors in Productivity Improvement ...................................................................... 56
Education ................................................................................................................................... 56
Table 3.6: Years of Education Among Surveyed Farmers ............................................................................56
Age Variables ............................................................................................................................. 56
Figure 3.15: Education Correlation Across All Sampled Canals .................................................................56
Figure 3.16: Education Correlation by Age and Location ...........................................................................57
MAIL Extension Service ............................................................................................................. 57
Figure 3.18: Comparison between MAIL Extension Agent Visits and Canal Cleaning .............................58
Farmer Involvement .................................................................................................................. 59
Figure 3.19 – Farmer Involvement in Extension Activities ...........................................................................59
Conclusions and Recommendations ..................................................................................... 59
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Improved water availability ...................................................................................................... 59
Increased availability of high quality seeds, fertilizers and farm machinery ............................ 60
Capacity building, training and greater market access ............................................................. 60
ANNEX 1.............................................................................................................................. 61
Participants in the Diagnostic Analysis Workshop .................................................................... 61
Annex II: Program Overview and Schedule ........................................................................... 62
ABBREVIATIONS AND TERMS
ACRONYMS
ADB
ARIA
AWATT
CSU
DA
FAO
MAIL
MEW
NMSU
SIUC
UIUC
WUA
Asian Development Bank
Agricultural Research Centre of Afghanistan
Afghanistan Water, Agriculture and Technology Transfer
Colorado State University
Diagnostic Analysis
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Ministry of Agriculture Irrigation and Livestock
Ministry of Energy and Water
New Mexico State University
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Water Users Association
GLOSSARY
Chakbashi
Jerib
Mirab
Mirab bashi
Paikal
Community-level agricultural specialist
Unit of land measurement (1 jerib = 0.2 hectares)
Water master
Water bailiff
Unit of land measurement (1 paikal = approx. 72 hectares)
TECHNICAL TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
ETc
ETo
L/s/ha
Pe
Ppt
Command area
Head-end
Intake
Offtake
Tail-end
Crop water requirements
Evapo-Transpiration
Litres per second per hectare
Effective precipitation
Precipitation
The area that can be irrigated from a specific canal
Referring to the irrigated area located close to the top of the main canal
Structure designed to acquire water from a river to a main canal. that usually
consists of a weir across the river and a gated headwork at the head of a
main canal
An in-canal structure designed to acquire water from a first level canal to a
secondary level canal
Used in canal irrigation to refer to the irrigated area located at the far end of
the main canal
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
AWATT: AN INTRODUCTION
The purpose of the Afghanistan Water, Agriculture and Technology Transfer Program
(AWATT) is to increase food security, agricultural productivity, and employment in rural
Afghanistan and to help re-establish healthy watersheds by improving irrigation and agronomic
practices and strengthening support services to farmers.
AWATT operates active projects in the provinces of Balkh, Herat, Kabul, Kapisa, Kunar,
Laghman, Nangarhar, Paktiya, Paktika, and Parwan. It is also exploring opportunities through
watershed forestry assessments in Bamiyan, Khost, Wardak, and Zabul. AWATT works with
Ministry of Agriculture Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) staff and agricultural extension workers
to provide outreach support to isolated farmers in far-flung communities.
Funding of the AWATT Program is from the U.S. Government through a cooperative
agreement with USAID-Afghanistan’s Office of Agriculture. New Mexico State University
(NMSU) in collaboration with Colorado State University (CSU), Southern Illinois University
Carbondale (SIUC), and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) leads the
Afghanistan-based AWATT team. AWATT and USAID signed the cooperative agreement on
March 3, 2008.
AWATT BALKH WATERSHED DIAGNOSTIC ANALYSIS
In June 2009, AWATT team members ran a training and research program with representatives
from various stakeholder agencies. Team members included Eng. Hakeem Khan, AWATT incountry water resources specialist, Dr. Stephen Davies, Dr. Chris Goemans and Dr. Ramchand
Oad of Colorado State University, and Dr. Jamal Khan from the University of Peshawar.
A group of 30 officials from the Ministry of Energy and Water (MEW), the Ministry of
Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL), and other Government and nongovernment
organizations of Afghanistan participated in a two-week intensive Diagnostic Analysis (DA) of
irrigation systems in Mazar-e-Sharif and the Balkh watershed. (Annex 1 lists the participating
ministries and agencies.)
The DA reviews water resource management in Afghanistan in order to determine AWATT’s
requirements for the year ahead. The program included a combination of in-class work,
demonstrations of water measurement techniques, and a farm survey. Over the first three days,
AWATT presented background information about water management issues, crop water
requirements, and farm economics to participants for discussion. Further presentations
examined the implications of new water laws, the role of the Mirab, crop water requirements,
and overall operation and management of irrigation systems. Site visits by participants to the
Nahr-e Shahi and Mirzae canal intakes took place to examine and compare flow control and
division structures along the canals. Annex II presents a full schedule of topics covered in the
workshop.
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This study measured irrigation water supply in the Siagard, Mirzae, and Balkh canals in Mazar-eSharif, Balkh Province and observed crop water demand and agricultural trends. An overview of
major water flows using primary and secondary data describes the Balkh Watershed. The study
also compared estimates of the water requirements of various crops with findings relating to
water availability throughout the year. The DA reviews results in relation to agricultural and
livestock practices and identifies water flow and losses in the three samples canals.
The report presents the main findings on water supply and management practices in the Balkh
River Basin and contains results of the survey conducted as part of the program. Participants
and authors of this document recognized the need for extensive training in the future. This and
further conclusions and recommendations obtained from the participants of the program and
the authors of this document are evaluated for possible inclusion in the 2010 Plan of Work.
WATER SUPPLY & MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN THE BALKH AB RIVER BASIN
The Balkh Ab Watershed (Balkh Watershed) forms part of the Northern Basin of Afghanistan.
Surface flows from the Northern Basin originate from the mountains of the Central Highlands
and account for only two percent of the total volume of surface water flowing through the
country. Afghanistan utilizes all surface water and rivers dry up either in irrigation canals or in
desert sands before they can reach the northern border of the country.
In 1968, Balkh province had 224,500 ha of land under irrigation. River and streams account for
the majority of irrigation on this land. The Balkh River originates from Bandi Amir Lake located
in Bamiyan. Data shows that flow discharge varies from 19.8 to 168 m3/s, with an average of
53.35 m3/s recorded from 1964-1978. No data is available from 1979-2007 due to conflict in
the country.
Flow records show that availability of water in the system has decreased by around 34.4
percent over the past three decades. During wet years, upstream users have sufficient supplies
of water to be able to send excess resources downstream. Throughout average and dry years,
river supplies are unable to satisfy demand. The DA shows that around one-third of water in
two of the three sampled canals is lost due to poor maintenance and weed growth on sides of
the canal.
Estimates of the allocated and observed water shares in various tertiary channels show that the
first four tertiary channels located upstream in the systems receive close to their allocated
water share. The amount of water reaching the remaining tertiary canals however is significantly
less.
This study shows differences in water management outcomes between the head, middle and tail
reaches of the canals. Survey findings indicate that cleaning of the canals occurs more frequently
at the tail areas of all three sampled canals. Farmers at the tail end of the canals also spend
more time cleaning the watercourse. The survey also showed that farmers with the least
amount of water are most likely to irrigate at night, suggesting possible cases of water theft in
areas where water resources are insufficient.
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CROP WATER DEMAND AND IRRIGATION SUPPLY
Knowledge of when to irrigate and of how much water to apply per irrigation is important in
terms of farm production and gross farm profits, particularly in view of the country’s scarce
water supplies. Over the course of FY09, AWATT’s irrigation engineers measured irrigation
water supply in the three sampled canals. Average potential evapo-transpiration (ETo), rainfall,
and irrigation water requirements for 11 major crops grown in the region were also calculated.
This study shows that peak water demand occurs in May and June. Data shows a severe
shortage of water in all of the sampled canals’ irrigation service areas, with farmers in these
areas cultivating only a small percentage of their cultivable land due to lack of irrigation supplies.
AWATT recommends efficient conservation and improved management of water resources,
together with the introduction of improved water management practices such as raised beds,
better flow control structures, and land leveling.
AGRICULTURE
The average landholding per household in the service areas of the sampled canals is 9.4
hectares (ha). Data shows that the majority of farmers are landowners, with insignificant
producer rental land situated on the Balkh Canal. Owners represented approximately 63
percent of farmers surveyed. Tenants and owner/tenants represented close to 19 percent each
of those surveyed. Data shows that landowners hold the majority of tail-end land at the Siagard
and Mirzae canals. At the Balkh canal, land ownership is greater at the head-end. This study
recorded no land ownership at the tail end of the canal.
A study of cropping intensities showed that significant portions of landholdings are fallow due
to insufficient supplies of irrigation water. Results ranged from 21.1 to 27.8 percent in the
summer season and from 44.7 to 53.1 percent in the winter season. Fallow land during summer
and winter seasons ranged from 72.7 to 87.9 percent and 46.9 to 55.3 percent respectively.
Fallow land accounts for an average of approximately 80 percent of land in the summer and 52
percent in the winter, due to shortages of irrigation water supply and low rainfall in the
sampled areas.
Wheat and barley represented the major crops planted between mid-October and midNovember. Harvesting takes place during the month of June. During spring season, alfalfa,
cotton, melon, watermelon, eggplant, okra, and cucumbers grow predominantly in the
upstream reaches of the canals’ service areas. In the summer season maize, cumin, and sesame
grow on a small percentage of the cultivated areas.
In the Balkh River Basin, yields of wheat and barley stood at 20.9 million kg/ha at the head, 29.2
million kg/ha at the middle and 21.5 million kg/ha at the tail reaches of the sampled areas. In
general, average yields of wheat, barley, cotton, and watermelon were higher at the middle
reaches of the sampled canals than at the head and tail reaches. Findings suggest possible overirrigation at the head-end and under-irrigation at the tail end of the sampled canals. Yields of
melon were significantly greater at the middle and tail reaches due to the low water demands of
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the crop. Results also showed that farmers producing the most profitable crops such as wheat,
melon, watermelon, and those farming on better-irrigated land had more contact with MAIL
Extension service agents.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Water is a scarce resource in Afghanistan’s semi-arid climate. If not properly allocated, farmers
will face inevitable heavy water shortages.
Findings from this DA show that farmers located at the head of the canal are less likely to face
scarcity issues, while the farmers in the tail areas are most susceptible to water shortages.
Equitable water distribution is unlikely due to physical, management, socio-cultural, political, and
financial constraints. With better management, water resources at the head reaches of the
canals can be preserved and used to irrigate more areas situated in the downstream reaches of
the system.
Results of this DA show that improved maintenance and proper weed control would help to
reduce loss and offer more efficient conveyance in the canal system. However, the condition of
canal infrastructures and distribution and management systems are not at a level to ensure
equitable water distribution without major improvements.
Of the farmers surveyed approximately 59 percent of respondents said they were not satisfied
with water supply. Some respondents described the overall maintenance of the distribution
system as less than adequate. Others cited the need for major improvements in canal design
and flow regulation and distribution structures. Less than one third of land is cultivated each
year due to water shortages.
The promotion of more judicious and improved management of water supply in the canals
through capacity-building initiatives for all stakeholders is crucial. There is a clear need for
conservation and better management of water resources in the area. Implementation of
improved water management practices, such as raised beds, improved flow control structures,
and land leveling, will promote better water conservation in the area, and collaboration
between all basin water users and stakeholders will promote understanding between upstream
and downstream water users. Upstream users should be encouraged to reserve some water
resources for use by downstream users. Strengthening of the MAIL Extension Service will
improve the transfer of new technologies to farmers. Strengthening of Water Users
Associations should also be encouraged.
Fluctuations in water supply are apparent due to variations in yearly precipitation and rainfall.
Climate change may also contribute to more fluctuations in water availability in the river
systems in the future. Construction of a water reservoir to conserve flood water and provide a
sustainable water supply to the Balkh River Canal system should therefore be explored for use
during water shortage periods. Online and farm storage systems should be assessed in line with
water availability and use in the Balkh River Basin.
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Water shortages could also be tackled and agricultural productivity enhanced through the
conjunctive use of surface and ground water. Water saving technologies can also prevent
losses.
Having a sound policy framework, including effective price policies for agricultural input and
output is the key to developing a successful and vigorous natural agricultural sector.
While disease and insect infestation remains a great problem for farmers, the prohibitive cost
or non-availability of quality seeds, insecticides, fertilizers and farm machinery were also cited
alongside flaws in the MAIL Extension Service. Those surveyed also called for greater and
improved access to transportation and market facilities, veterinary services and bank loans for
small farmers, as well as the strengthening of farmer organizations and the development of
demonstration plots.
In order to increase agricultural production, productivity, and income, technical training should
not limited to agricultural issues. Farmers must be able to understand the concepts of cost and
return analyses and net profit and loss. An effective marketing system would also allow farmers
to ensure a sustainable income from their land.
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SECTION I: WATER SUPPLY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN THE
BALKH AB RIVER BASIN
OVERVIEW OF THE BALKH AB WATERSHED
The Balkh Ab Watershed (Balkh Watershed) is part of the Northern Basin of Afghanistan. The
Northern Basin surface flows come from the mountains of the Central Highlands and account
for only two percent of the total surface water volume flowing through the country.
Afghanistan utilizes all surface water and rivers dry up either in irrigation canals or in desert
sands before they can reach the northern border of the country. Because of this hydrological
oddity, there is a non-drainage area along the northern border of the Balkh province, and thus,
aside from possible underground movement of water through aquifer recharge, the watershed
is closed.
The Balkh Watershed is the largest watershed in the Northern Basin. It is centrally located
along the northern border of the country and is primarily rain and snow fed. There are,
however, two prominent springs in the Balkh River Valley. Both springs drain into the Balkh
River and flows utilized downstream. The Balkh Watershed, which covers 28,835 sq. km, drains
approximately 87 percent of river flows in the Northern Basin. There are approximately 1,600
settlements in the watershed with a total population exceeding 1.3 million. Figure 1.1 shows the
location of Balkh province and the Balkh Watershed within Afghanistan and relative to
surrounding countries.
In 1968, Balkh province had 224,500 ha under irrigation, the majority through surface water
from river and stream sources. The Balkh River originates from Bandi Amir Lake located in
Bamiyan and has a total length of 400 km with a watershed area of 18,700 km2. Flow discharge
figures recorded from 1964-1978 range from 19.8 to 168 m3/s, with an average of 53.35 m3/s.
No data is available from 1979-2007 due to conflict in the country.
The livelihood of 114,883 Balkh Province inhabitants depends on agriculture and livestock
(FAO, 1996). The Government of Afghanistan built the Nahr-e Shahi Canal system, which
begins at the southern edge of a prominent alluvial fan in the Balkh province (Figure 1.2), to
facilitate irrigation. From the Balkh River, 18 main intakes supply water to 18 canals, providing
approximately 50,000 ha with irrigation water. This figure represents close to one quarter of
the irrigated land in the watershed. While the exact route of the canal remains unmapped, a
detailed schematic of the canal is available.
A non-drainage area exists above the three watersheds. The alluvial fan of the Balkh Watershed
is central and prominent. The Khulm Watershed, fed by the Samangan River shows a similar
feature.
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Figure 1.1: Location of Balkh Province Watersheds
Figure 1.2: The Nahr-e Shahi Canal and the Alluvial Fan Along the Balkh River
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BALKH AB RIVER FLOW
Records show that from 1964-1978 water flow from the Balkh River at Rabat-i-Bala ranged
from 19.8 to 160 m3/s (Figure 1.3). Over the past three decades, average flow has decreased by
approximately 34.38 percent. No data is available from 1979 to 2007.
Figure 1.3: Flow of Balkh River at Rabat-i-Bala from 1964-1978 (Source: Afghan Government
Central Statistics)
With no reservoir in the Balkh River system, canal intakes come directly from the river. The
amount of water diverted to canal systems varies according to the availability of water in the
river system. During the winter months, snowfall occurs in the upper mountains of the Balkh
River Basin. Increased temperatures at the end of the winter season result in increased river
flows (Figure 1.4). Highest flows were recorded from May to August and lowest flows from
November to February. The Balkh River’s annual average discharge is 53.35 m3/s, with the
highest recorded discharge of 1,430 m3/s observed in May 2009. While the flood duration of
the river ranges from just one to three days, variations in the river flow levels influence the
water supply of the canal system. Management of the system becomes more difficult because of
siltation and lack of head regulating structures.
Figure 1.4: Variations in Relative Water Levels of the Balkh River, February 2008 to May 2009
(Source: MEW, Mazar-e-Sharif)
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MEASUREMENT OF STREAM FLOWS AND WATER USE
Figure 1.5 shows a number of stream gauges located along the Balkh River. Gauges measured
daily flow rates from 1969-1978, although intervals varied between gauges. In order to gain
some insight into water use along the Balkh River, our study incorporates water flow
information from four of these stations. Stream flow analysis comprises data from the Darya Suf
and Rabat-i-Bala river stations.
The Darya Suf River gauge is located below the settlement of Shulgareh, an irrigation intensive
community. Findings from this study show that inhabitants at Shulgareh use large quantities of
water to flood irrigate their rice fields. However, the location of this gauge is under dispute and
such observations should not form the basis of any analysis. The Rabat-i-Bala gauge is located
below the Darya Suf River gauge.
Figure 1.5: Satellite Map of the Sampled Areas
Figure 1.6 indicates that peak flows occur in June in average or wet years. In dry years, peak
flows occur in May. A downstream peak occurs because users upstream divert large volumes of
in order to satisfy demand during the summer months. In wetter years, demand from users
upstream is satisfied, with excess water flowing downstream and resulting in peaks in June.
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Figure 1.7 suggests that gauges situated at the Darya Suf and Rabat-i-Bala rivers observe peak
flows at the same time, typically in May.
Figure 1.6: Monthly Flow Volume of Rabat-i-Bala
Figure 1.7: Monthly Flow Volume of Darya Suf River
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Figures 1.8, 1.9, and 1.10 show the distribution of average flows as a percentage of the total for
all years, wet years, and average years respectively. During wet years, users upstream have
sufficient water supply to be able to send excess water down river. However, during average
years there is not enough water in the river to satisfy demand and water use upstream results
in changes in the seasonal volume and a reduced supply of water downstream.
Figure 1.8: Darya Suf River Flow Distribution for All Years
Figure 1.9: Darya Suf River Flow Distribution (Wet Years)
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Figure 1.10: Darya Suf River Flow Distribution (Average Years)
CANAL LEVEL WATER MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND SUPPLY
One of the objectives of this study is to identify problems and constraints relating to low
agricultural productivity and possible solutions for better management of the system. The
workshop management team developed a detailed questionnaire and surveys conducted on
random farmers located in the upstream, midstream and downstream reaches of the sampled
canals. The survey sought to acquire feedback from farmers on the following issues:











Water availability
Water management
Water losses
Water distribution
Role of the Mirab
Canal maintenance
Cropping patterns
Farm budgets
Marketing
Plant protection issues
Livestock
Table 1.1 shows salient features of the sampled canals studied during this DA process.
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Table 1.1: Service Area, Number of Offtakes and Observed Discharge of Sampled Canals
Canal
Service Area
(ha)
Length of
main canal
Siagard
Mirzae
Balkh
10,800
1,620
4,816
40
6
15
Measured
discharge on
13/06/09 (m3/s)
1.560
0.400
0.67
No. of tertiary
canals/offtakes
9
11
9
BALKH RIVER IRRIGATION CANALS
The Balkh River provides irrigation water to two distinct systems: the Shogara Valley situated
upstream in the Balkh River Basin and Hazdha Naha, located downstream.
Seven canals serve the Shogara Valley area. The dominant cropping pattern is rice-wheat.
The Hazdha Nahr irrigation network serves an estimated area of 424,880 ha through a system
of 11 separate canals. The network covers a total length of 475 km across Mazar, Balkh, Aqcha,
and Jawzjan regions (Lee, 2003). Allocation rights form the basis of water allocation, expressed
in a unit known as the paikal, where one paikal is equal to 360 to 400 jeribs or 72 to 80 ha. An
agricultural taxation system stipulates water rights (ADB, 2002). Table 1.2 shows the service
areas of the irrigation canals of the Balkh River system, which range from 5,040 to 79,200 ha,
with an average of 34,383 ha.
Table 1.2: Balkh River Canals and Service Areas with Water Rights
Sample
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
Canal
Imam Sahib
Nahr-e Shahi
Siagard
Balkh
Mushtaq
Chimtal
Abdullah
Daulatabad
Charbolak
Faizabad
Aaqcha
Total
Service Areas with Water Right
Paikal*
Hectares (Ha)
200
560
150
70
209
164
700
750
750
600
1,100
5,253
14,400
40,320
10,800
5,040
15,048
11,808
50,400
54,000
54,000
43,200
79,200
37,8216
*1 Paikal = 360 Jerib =72 ha in this system
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WATER LOSSES AND IRRIGATION SUPPLY
Water is measured to estimates of losses in the sampled canals are to ascertain the availability
of irrigation at the upstream and downstream reaches of the systems. Losses were determined
by observing in-flows and out-flows using constructed weirs and gauges in the system. This
study measured water at the beginning and end of each reach. The loss is the difference
between any offtakes, such as flowing watercourses.
A summary of results presented in Table 1.3 shows that the estimated conveyance losses in the
three sampled canals ranged from 0.85 to 31.67 percent per km. Overall losses in the whole
length of the canals were calculated at 33.85 and 30.14 percent in Siagard and Mirzae canals
respectively. This study concludes that approximately one-third of water is lost in the whole
length of the canal due to poor maintenance and weed growth on the sides of the canal.
Lining certain sections of the canal where water losses are relatively high can result in significant
water savings. However, this can be prohibitive in terms of cost. Better maintenance and
proper weed control would also help to reduce loss and provide more efficient canal system
conveyance.
Time constraints and limited resources do not allow for a comprehensive evaluation of canal
water losses within this DA. The subject could form the basis of a separate study. Many
variables can affect results and a few quick measurements may not compensate for them.
Losses in unlined channels are a function of the wetted perimeter; this coupled with the daily
changes in channel water levels make it difficult to derive estimates of losses in a short period.
Soil conditions of the channel can also affect results. Only a program that can take sufficient
measurements over time and changing conditions can provide precise data. Thus, results shown
in this study are indicative values only and may be subject to changes in the flow and
maintenance conditions of the canals.
Table 1.3: Conveyance Losses in the Sampled Canals of the Balkh River
Canal
Siagard
Mirzae
Balkh
Discharge
measured at
the head
(m3/s)
1.560
0.292
0.345
Length of
Canal/
Branch
(km)
40
6
0.742
Conveya
nce
Losses
(m3/s)
0.528
0.088
0.035
Total
Conveyan
ce losses
(%)
33.85
30.14
10.14
Conveyance
Losses
(%/km)
0.85
5.02
13.67
WATERCOURSE CLEANING
One of the aims of the survey was to gain information on the upkeep of the watercourse by the
farmers who are utilizing it. Figures 1.11 and 1.12 illustrate farmers’ responses to the question:
“How often is your watercourse cleaned?”
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Results show that the majority of farmers do spend time cleaning the canal and see value in this
activity.
Figure 1.11 shows the significant differences in watercourse cleaning frequency across canals.
Siagard is the only canal in which some farmers (more than 20 percent) reported never having
cleaned the canal. Balkh has the greatest percentage of farmers who clean the canal more than
once per season. These differences across canals could be due to canal size. Theoretically, a
canal with a smaller group of farmers and a greater likelihood of a more homogenous
population would have more incentive to clean the canal, as they are likely to be more
accountable to others in the community. Outside research also indicates that the closer the
canal is to a market, the less likely the individuals at the canal are to cooperate.
Figure 1.11: Frequency of Canal Cleaning By Canal
Figure 1.12: Frequency of Canal Cleaning By Location in Canal
Figure 1.12 shows watercourse cleaning frequency across the head, middle, and tail reaches of
the canals. The data shows that the head and middle areas are similar in terms of cleaning
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frequency. On average cleaning of the canal is most frequent in the tail areas. Figures 1.13 and
1.14 show the number of person-days spent cleaning the canal each season. The results indicate
that not only is the tail cleaned more frequently but that more person-days are spent cleaning
the canal. This result corroborates with expectations that those living in the tail areas with
higher marginal values of water have the greatest private incentive to clean the canal.
Figure 1.13: Average Person-Days Spent Cleaning at the Head, Middle and Tail Reaches of the
Canal
Figure 1.14: Percentage of Days Spent Cleaning the Canal
NIGHT IRRIGATION
The survey also compared irrigation practices during the day and night. Figure 1.15 indicates
that farmers at the head reaches are less likely to irrigate differently at night to those located at
the tail reaches of the canals. Findings from the DA show that farmers with the least access to
water resources are more likely to irrigate differently at night. This might lead us to conclude
that cases of water theft take place at night in areas where water supply is otherwise
insufficient.
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The survey also compared irrigation practices during the day and night. Data indicates that
farmers at the head reaches are less likely to irrigate differently at night to those located at the
tail reaches of the canals. The DA also shows that farmers with the least access to water
resources are more likely to irrigate differently at night. This might lead us to conclude that
cases of water theft take place at night in areas where water supply is otherwise insufficient.
Figure 1.15: Differences in Irrigation Practices at Night
LAND LEVELING
Figure 1.16 shows that poor land leveling is most common at the Siagard Canal and nonexistent at the Balkh Canal. It also appears that the Siagard Canal has many inconsistencies with
the other sampled canals, perhaps because of its much greater length. While subjective, it can
be questioned whether farmers in the area are aware of their land level status.
Figure 1.16: Percentage of Farms with Poor Land Leveling
DURATION OF WATER APPLICATION
The duration of water application applied to alfalfa crops ranged from 1.83 to 6.97 hrs/ha, with
an average of 3.91 hrs/ha. In general, water application to alfalfa crops was 30 and 40 percent
less at the middle and tail reaches compared to those at the head reaches. Higher application of
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water at the upstream reaches did not result in higher yields than those in the middle reaches
of the sampled canals. We can conclude that with better management, water resources at the
upstream can be preserved and used to irrigate more areas at the downstream reaches of the
system.
Table 1.4: Water Application Practiced by Farmers in the Service Area of Sampled Canals
Canal
Siagard
Mirzae
Balkh
Overall average
Sample
Size
16
16
27
Head
Middle
Tail
Average
Irrigation water applied to Alfalfa crop (hrs/ha)
6.97
3.00
2.92
4.30
5.08
4.79
4.27
4.71
3.41
2.95
1.83
2.73
5.15
3.58
3.01
3.91
WATER DISTRIBUTION AND ALLOCATION: ADEQUACY AND RELIABILITY
Afghanistan has a semi-arid climate and water is a scarce resource. Farmers face heavy water
shortages due to inefficient water allocation. Findings from the DA show farmers located at the
head of the canal are less likely to face scarcity issues, while the farmers in the tail areas are
most susceptible to water shortages.
Three parties are involved in the management of water distribution. Each main canal has a mirab
bashi (water bailiff), who is assisted by the mirab (water manager), responsible for major
secondary canal intakes. At the tertiary canal level, the chakbashi (village agricultural specialist)
assists the mirab bashi and the mirab. Water distribution is not equitable and many farmers in
the downstream areas of the canal reported excessive use of water by upstream users.
Observations suggest that rice cultivation is one of the main causes of water insufficiencies in
the downstream areas of the river basin. However, the appropriateness of distribution can only
be assessed using appropriate measurements.
Fifteen tertiary units located on the Siagard, Mirzae and Balkh canals measured outlet discharge
(Tables 1.5 to 1.7). Results show that water supply in the head reaches of the sampled canals
was more efficient and in line with allocated shares compared to downstream reaches in the
system. Wide variations exist downstream, with some outlets receiving less than their allocated
share. The water allocation system does not consider losses, causing inequitable distribution of
water throughout the system, especially at the tail end of the canals.
Table 1.5 shows the allocated and observed water share in various tertiary channels in the
Siagard canal system. Data from this study shows that the first four tertiary channels located
upstream in the systems received close to their allocated water share, while the remaining
tertiary canals received less than their allocated share. Water distribution in the Mirzae Canal
was relatively better, due in part to its relatively small length compared to the Siagard Canal
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(Table 1.6). In general, outlets at the head reaches of the sampled systems received more water
than those at the tail reaches.
Situated mainly at the tail end of the canal, there are five tube wells in the downstream reaches
of the canal systems. The installation of tube wells in areas receiving an insufficient water supply
from the canals supports responses received to similar questions relating to the efficient
allocation of water. Pumping costs are higher in the tail reaches of the canals.
Table 1.5: Tertiary Channels Service Area, Allocated and Observed Water Share at the Siagard Canal
Sample
Tertiary
Unit
Area
Area
(ha)
Allocated
Water Share
(%)
Observed
Discharge
13/06/09 (m3/s)
Observed
Water Share
(%)
14.17
1,020.00
9.45
0.143
9.17
4.00
288.00
2.67
0.034
2.18
10.67
768.24
7.11
0.095
6.09
14.17
1,020.24
9.45
0.135
8.66
20.00
1,440.00
13.33
0.069
4.45
1.50
17.50
63.99
1,08.00
1,260.00
4,607.28
1.00
11.67
42.66
0.000
0.098
0.441
0.00
6.30
28.29
4.00
288.00
2.67
0.016
0.46
(Paikal
)
Khasa Paz
1
Farm-eDaulate
Deh Qaji
2
3
Zambo
Kan
Dera Gai
4
5
Nawagil
Urtagul
Urtagul
Siagard
Nawagil
Sia Gard
6
7
8-A
8-B
Table 1.6: Tertiary Channels Service Area, Allocated and Observed Water Share at the Mirzae Canal
Sample
1
2
3-A
3-B
4-A
4-B
5
6
7
8
9
Tertiary Unit
Haji Faqeer
Arbab Qalinder
Haji Abdul Bhai
(Right)
Haji Karim Bhai
(Left)
Thaghaee Baghaee
Ashani
Haji Qurban
Baig Ali
Haji Noor Bahie
Haji Gul Alam
Mirzae
Area
(Paikal)
1.00
4.50
1.00
72.00
324.00
72.00
Allocated
Water
Share (%)
4.44
20.00
4.44
1.00
72.00
4.44
7.00
1.00
2.00
0.33
0.25
0.67
3.75
Area
(ha)
504.00
72.00
1,44.00
23.76
18.00
48.24
270.00
31.11
4.44
8.89
1.47
1.11
2.98
16.67
Observed
Discharge
13/06/09 (m3/s)
0.015
0.052
Observed
Water Share
(%)
5.11
18.07
0.007
2.27
0.007
0.082
0.007
0.023
----0.008
0.052
2.27
28.38
2.53
8.07
------2.60
17.85
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Table 1.7: Tertiary Channels Service Area, Allocated and Observed Water Share at the Balkh
Canal
Sample
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
Offtake
Ghulba Baghaat
Hayatajat
Qala
Asyab Qonigh
Palas Posh Watani
Palas Posh Naw Warid
Kushkak
Hesarak and Dahrazi
Ghandian
Ofmalik Watani
Ofmalik Naw Warid
Area (paikal)
1.00
1.00
4.25
8.50
10.29
5.64
12.75
8.51
7.44
8.50
2.12
Area (ha)
72
144
216
288
360
432
504
576
648
720
792
Water Share (%)
1.42
1.42
6.04
12.07
14.60
8.00
18.11
12.08
10.56
12.07
3.01
Approximately 59 percent of respondents interviewed said that they were not satisfied with
water supply, especially during the winter season, reporting that they received less than enough
or too little water. In the Siagard Canal service area, 85 percent of respondents reported less
than enough or too little water. In the Mirzae canal, 76 percent of farmers reported sufficient
water supplies (Figures 1.17 and 1.18).
Figure 1.17: Survey Results of Water Adequacy during Summer
Figure 1.18: Survey Results of Water Adequacy during Winter Season
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Figure 1.19 illustrates that across the three sampled canals the head areas are likely to
experience greater percentages of farmers reporting sufficient amounts of water than those in
the tail areas. The tail areas do not appear to be significantly different from those in the middle
of the sampled canals, but this may be due to the small amounts of middle farmers in some of
the samples. However, we cannot draw any conclusions from this variable, as sufficiency is a
subjective concept that depends on the type of crops grown and the expectations of the
individual farmer.
Figure 1.19: Survey Results of Reported Water Sufficiency
A number of factors contribute to water scarcity issues and the inability of the system to
provide adequate water to the farmers. These factors include:





Poor maintenance which may lead to excessive losses;
Seepage loss in the canals;
Non-consideration of travel time in water allocation strategies and time required for
sufficient water to reach the tail areas;
Cultivation of high water use crop (rice) in the upstream reaches of the Balkh River
Basin; and
Illegal and excessive use of water by upstream users.
Based on direct observation during walk-throughs and discussions with farmers, some of the
problems in the Balkh Ab River’s Canal system related to water distribution include:




Shortage of water in the system due to excessive use of water in the upstream reaches
of the canal;
Illegal obstruction by farmers to increase flows into the specific outlets;
Non-consideration of canal filling and drainage time leading to non-equitable water
distribution;
Vulnerability of farmers to manipulation by powerful influential landowners; and
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
Tendency by some farmers and other powerful stakeholders at the head reaches to
apply water during the day and to allow water to flow at night. As a result, some
farmers in the tail regions engage in permanent night irrigations.
WATER MANAGEMENT: THE ROLE OF THE MIRAB
The village Mirab is responsible for all structures and distribution systems along the canal.
Where required he collects from the users and pays for the maintenance of the canal under the
supervision of the elders. The Mirab also resolves disputes over water and is responsible for
arranging the cleaning of the canal at the end of each year. Generally, people taking part in the
survey were satisfied with the role of Mirab.
In terms of managing the irrigation system in Afghanistan, the main responsibilities of the Mirab
include:








Water conveyance and distribution;
Major link between government and water users;
Maintenance of the water system with help from the community;
Collection of funds for maintenance;
General care of the system;
Collection and payment of funds for maintenance and operation;
Dispute resolution; and
Organizing annual cleaning of the canal.
GOVERNMENT AND COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS
Traditionally, communities have excavated canals in the Balkh province, with distribution issues
managed by the water users themselves. As a result, the government only contributes in the
construction and maintenance of basic structures along the system. In Afghanistan, the
community manages almost 88 percent of the irrigation canals, while the Government, in
regions that include Nangarhar, Parwan, and Helmand, excavated and now manage 12 percent
of the canals. The Government intends to take over the management issues of the traditional
canals in the long term, for the purpose of preventing water loses, land loggings and salinities. In
the meantime, disputes arising along the system will be resolved through the Mirab and the
enforcement of new water laws. The Government will construct intakes in an appropriate way,
and disputes and illegal interferences eradicated.
Communities are encouraged to organize volunteer works to clean the canal or collect funds
for providing services to the system. The community must be convinced of government
initiatives to improve irrigation systems. The community may also participate in the solving of
disputes.
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Community initiatives may prevent water losses at the canal and on-farm levels. Activities
include:








Cleaning of the canal
Collection of funds to provide services to system;
Resolution of disputes;
Water usage based on crop requirements;
Introduction of new technologies;
Development of water associations;
Improvements to structures; and
Effective maintenance.
STRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
Some respondents described the overall maintenance of the distribution system as less than
adequate. Others cited the need for major improvements in canal design and flow regulation
and distribution structures. Areas of maintenance fall into three major need categories:
essential, priority, and annual. A particular maintenance item will fall into one of the three
categories depending on the conditions of a particular canal. Respondents of the survey made
the following comments concerning maintenance:




De-silting of sampled canals and irrigation channels are performed once or twice per
year;
Maintenance funds for canals and irrigation channels are collected on the basis of land
holding;
Most de-silting is done manually. In the main canals the exercise requires participation
from 500-600 irrigators over a 15-30 day period; and
Government help is sought to carry out major repairs.
Annual maintenance requirements were defined as follows:




Removal of all vegetation along canal banks and embankments;
Establishment of excess road along the canal;
De-silting and removal of all vegetation from canal banks and beds; and
Repair of damaged canal banks and/or scouring of holes at structures.
For the purpose of this study, essential structural and maintenance improvement requirements
are as follows:



De-silting of canal and removal of weeds on the bank of canal;
Installation of new permanent fixed staff gauges at appropriate locations for water
measurement at all the distribution points;
Necessary installation of flow regulation and distribution structures; and
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
Identification of location of structures, water distribution points and paint making
systems at each 1000 m interval on the canals.
MAJOR WATER ISSUES
Less than one third of land is cultivated each year due to water shortages. Fluctuations in water
supply due to variations in river flow also present a major challenge. Other major issues
include:






Lack of water control and regulation structures;
Water regulating devices not installed in the intakes for determination of water rights;
Weeds on the banks;
Inequitable water allocation and distribution;
Water shortage in the upstream as a result of rice field cultivation in the Sholgara Valley;
and
Illegal pumping of water.
Plate 1.1: Image Showing Condition of a Section of one of the Sampled Canals
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Most farmers lack technical knowledge of water management in the main canal systems. Some
branch canals do not have basic offtakes installed, resulting in inequitable water distribution.
Farmers in the upstream reaches of the Balkh River Basin in the Sholgara Valley grow rice on an
area of 260-280 ha. In addition crops such as cotton, fruit trees, grapes and vegetables (FAO,
2003) are grown on significant areas of land. Rice cultivation is expected to increase due to the
relatively better returns of the crop. Water users in the Sholgara Valley fail to follow intercommunity water management practices and divert water from the Balkh River when they
require. Without government intervention regulation of flow is likely to continue to be a major
issue in terms of effective water distribution.
PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT: CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The condition of canal infrastructures and distribution and management systems are not at a
level to ensure equitable water distribution without major improvements. Therefore, in order
to achieve a sustainable and fully functional canal system, AWATT recommends capacity
building of management teams at all levels and significant improvement of canal infrastructures.
MEW and MAIL staff require training to be able to deliver water efficiently to the farmers’ fields
and knowledge of how to make better use of canal resources. The current research resulted in
several new approaches including:






Developing of farmer organizations to improve O&M practices;
Installation of lining in irrigation channels situated in critical reaches;
Installation of control and social structures;
Implementation of precision land leveling;
Improved irrigation practices at the farm level; and
Improved delivery of technical information to farmers.
Strengthening of Water Users Associations (WUAs) is necessary in terms of improving
performance and maintenance of the canal system. AWATT recommends that MEW and MAIL
initiate an intensive awareness and training program to increase the farmers’ knowledge of
irrigated agriculture and to promote a more judicious use of irrigation water. Practical and
vocational ‘in-the-village’ training programs and demonstrations and appropriate and use of
audio-visual media may assist in the accomplishment of the broader MEW and MAIL objectives.
AWATT also recommends a review of staffing, training, and the provision of necessary
resources.
Lack of easy access through crossings is a general problem that occurs in most canal-irrigated
areas. Future plans should allow for improved access. With such huge losses observed in the
system, AWATT recommends the establishment and promotion of an effective operation and
maintenance program in joint collaboration with all stakeholders.
The distribution of irrigation water among farmers is through a water right per cultivated land.
The size of land ownership determines allocation of water rights. If practiced according to
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schedules, and if outlets are proportional, the amount of water delivered to each farmer would
be equitable, to some extent due to non-consideration of canal filling and draining times. Due to
physical, management, socio-cultural, political, and financial constraints, equitable water
distribution is hard to achieve. As a result, farmers in the tail reaches of the sampled canals
often receive the least water and suffer the greatest inequities. Those at the head reaches of
the canals receive the most water.
Measuring devices installed at all distribution structures would serve the dual purpose of
promoting equity and allowing system operators to understand events occurring throughout
the system. Though such a solution will not fully serve system operators’ needs, cost is minimal
and maintenance simple. Depth markings painted on all permanent structures showing the
percentage of full flow in the canal is also recommend to raise awareness and allow farmers to
see and easily understand whether the water level at their outlet is at a par with those
upstream. Making disparities obvious in this way will lead to improved levels of equity.
Significant variations exist in outlet discharges compared to percentages of water and are higher
in the downstream reaches of the canal. A detailed hydraulic performance assessment of the
canals would ensure equitability of the system. Further recommendations include the
promotion of more judicious and improved management of water supply in the canals through
capacity building initiatives for all stakeholders. Upstream users should be encouraged to
reserve some water resources for use by downstream users.
Farmers have reported water shortages in all the sampled irrigation systems, especially in the
tail reaches of the canals, suggesting a need to increase the supply of water to the systems.
Fluctuations in water supply are apparent due to variations in yearly precipitation and rainfall.
Climate change may also contribute to more fluctuations in water availability in the river
systems in the future. Construction of a water reservoir to conserve flood water and provide a
sustainable water supply to the Balkh River Canal system should therefore be explored for use
during water shortage periods. AWATT recommends that online and farm storage systems be
assessed in line with water availability and use.
A feasibility study into the construction of a water reservoir in Cheshma-e-Shafa to conserve
floodwater and overcome water shortages in the system is also recommended. Water
shortages could also be tackled and agricultural productivity enhanced through the conjunctive
use of surface and ground water, provided that it does not harm water availability in the canals
or result in ground water depletion. It is also recommended that springs be recharged regularly.
This study shows that water losses in the upstream Mirzae Canal area are between 10 and 12
percent. To prevent water losses AWATT recommends training of farmers, to ensure a better
understanding of canal and on-farm water management and crop water requirements, and the
introduction of water saving technologies and practices such as:



Drip irrigation systems;
Ensuring minimum or zero tillage;
Land leveling;
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



Plastic layering of the ditches approximately half a meter down;
Clearing of weeds along the water flow;
Adjusting selection of crops to meet water availability; and
Construction of concrete structures on ditches to prevent physical water losses.
In order to increase water productivity, managers and farmers need to understand water
requirements in different growth stages of each crop and to make use of the technical advice of
the MAIL Extension Service relating to the irrigation requirements of each crop. AWATT
recommends comprehensive quality and quantity assessments of ground water in the Balkh
River Basin.
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SECTION II: CROP WATER DEMAND AND IRRIGATION SUPPLY
Muhammad Jamal Khan and Abdul Hakeem Khan
INTRODUCTION
Agriculture in Afghanistan, besides providing food and fiber, employs around 47 percent of the
country’s labor force. The economy of the country depends heavily on the agriculture sector
development. Irrigated agriculture plays an important role and more than 70 percent of
agricultural production comes from irrigated areas due to the arid and semi-arid climatic
conditions that prevail in the country. To cater to the food and fiber demand of an everincreasing population, there is a need for judicious use of Afghanistan’s scarce water resources.
The management of AWATT project is working on the development of replicable agricultural
production models to increase overall crop productivity in the target areas, with initiatives also
aimed at improving farm incomes and reducing poverty.
In order to promote a more judicious use of irrigation water, farmers need to know when to
irrigate. They also need to know how much water to apply per irrigation. This study includes an
assessment and discussion of average potential evapo-transpiration, rainfall, crops, and irrigation
water requirements of major crops grown, as well as irrigation water supply to the three
sampled canals in Mazar-e-Sharif.
POTENTIAL EVAPO-TRANSPIRATION AND PRECIPITATION
Figure 3.1 shows average monthly potential evapo-transpiration (ETo) and precipitation (ppt)
levels. These figures show that highest monthly precipitation, approximately 40 mm, occurs in
March, with approximately 33 mm in April and February. In general, precipitation received in
the area from June to October is negligible, at less than 5 mm. However, the highest monthly
potential occurs during July, followed by August and June.
It is obvious that agricultural production depends heavily on availability of irrigation water in the
area. It is also clear that agriculture production without irrigation has very little potential for
development due to low annual rainfall.
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Figure 2.1: Monthly Potential Evapo-Transpiration (ETo) and Precipitation (PPt) in Mazar-eSharif
CROP EVAPO-TRANSPIRATION
Multiplication of crop coefficients by potential ETo results in the calculation of evapotranspiration (ETo) of crops grown in Mazar-e-Sharif. Figure 3.2 shows that the maximum and
minimum daily crop ETo for major crops grown in Mazar-e-Sharif varies from less than 1
mm/day to 9.5 mm/day. During the summer months, because of high temperatures and low
rainfall, daily crop ETo is relatively high. In summer season, the maximum ETo of crops grown
stood at approximately 9 mm/day. The crop water requirements of wheat and barley are
relatively low when compared to other crops. In general, water requirements for average crops
throughout the year ranged from 2-5 mm/day.
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Figure 2.2: Daily Minimum, Maximum and Average Crop Evapo-Transpiration (ETo) of Major
Crops in Mazar-e-Sharif
DEPTH OF WATER APPLICATION
This study estimates irrigation water requirements of all major crops grown in Mazar-e-Sharif
based on 10-day irrigation intervals and an assumed on-farm application efficiency of 70 percent
(Figure 3.3). The depth of water application ranged from 10 mm to 135 mm, with an overall
average of approximately 70 mm.
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Figure 2.3: Estimated Depth of Water Application
NET SEASONAL IRRIGATION REQUIREMENTS OF CROPS
Estimates of the seasonal irrigation requirements of major crops grown in the area assume an
overall irrigation system efficiency of 50 percent. Figure 3.4 shows that maximum seasonal
irrigation requirements for alfalfa, apple, and apricot are around 2,200 mm. Minimum seasonal
irrigation is required for wheat and barley, and average gross seasonal irrigation requirements
for vegetable and melon crops grown in the area ranged from 1,000 to 1,200 mm.
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Figure 2.4: Seasonal Irrigation Requirements of Major Crops in Mazar-e-Sharif
POTENTIAL EVAPO-TRANSPIRATION AND WATER ALLOWANCE
In Afghanistan, the major government canals operate based on a water allowance set at one
liter per second per hectare (L/s/ha). This study estimates potential evapo-transpiration (ETo)
based on long-term climatic data and the corresponding water allowance, with an assumed
overall irrigation system efficiency of 50 percent and on-farm application efficiency of 70
percent. Conveyance efficiency is also a factor.
Figure 3.5 shows that potential ETo reaches nine mm/day with a corresponding water
allowance of around two L/s/ha with an assumed irrigation system efficiency of 50 percent. The
water allowance observed in the Siagard Canal service area ranged from 0.16 to 0.20 L/s/ha,
suggesting that only a small percentage, up to 20 percent, of the area was cultivated in the
summer months. In winter, a relatively larger area, approximately 44.7 percent, was cultivated
due to the low water demands of wheat and barley crops typically grown in the area during the
season.
Water allowances for crops grown in Mazar-e-Sharif were determined from daily gross
irrigation requirements per unit area assuming overall irrigation system efficiency of 50 percent,
conveyance efficiency of 72 percent and on-farm application efficiency of 70 percent. Water
allowances of various crops ranged from 0.232 to 2.084 L/s/ha, with an overall average of 0.967
L/s/ha (Figure 3.5). This study concludes that water supply is adequate for crops grown in the
area if average irrigation water supply is 1.0 L/s/ha. However, the maximum water allowance for
most of the crops grown in the summer months was approximately 1.7 to 2.1 L/s/ha during
peak water demand from June through August (Figure 3.6). With average water allowances
estimated for the major canals’ command areas found to be 1.0 L/s/ha, this figure appears
reasonable.
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Figure 2.5: Potential Evapo-Transpiration and Related Water Allowance
Figure 2.6: Water Allowance of Major Crops
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CROP WATER DEMAND AND SUPPLY
This study uses existing cropping patterns observed during the DA data collection process in
June 2009, within the service area of the sampled canals, to calculate crop water demand. Crop
water requirements (ETc) were determined by multiplying reference crop evapo-transpiration
(ETo) by crop coefficients. Subtracting effective precipitation (Pe) from the ETc calculates net
seasonal requirements. Dividing the net irrigation requirement by an overall irrigation system
efficiency of 50 percent provides an estimate of gross irrigation requirements.
The study observed water level records of the Balkh River and the head-ends of the sampled
canals to estimate average water supplies. Discharge from the Nahr-e Shahi Canal, supplied
through a gated headwork from the Balkh River, recorded 10.16 m3/s. From Nahr-e Shahi,
Siagard Canal is the first branch, which has an official water share of 21.11 percent. Discharge
from the canal measured 2.14 m3/s in June 2009.
Plate 2.1: The Nahr-e Shahi Canal Headwork on the Balkh River
At the time of this study, downstream from the Siagard Canal headwork, work on the Balkh
Canal offtake was in progress and due for completion by the end of 2009. Throughout June
2009, the Balkh Canal received water from the Balkh River downstream of the Nahr-e-Shahi
Headwork. Farmers in the area were facing severe water shortages in the system and discharge
measured was significantly below their water allocation.
Plate 2.2: Construction of the Balkh Canal Offtake From Siagard Canal
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Figures 3.7 to 3.9 show crop demands and water supplies of the Siagard, Mirzae, and Balkh
canals respectively. Figure 3.7 shows that farmers at Siagard Canal received a greater water
supply than their allocation. At present, cropping patterns and crop water demand in the
Siagard Canal’s service area range from 74 to 1995 L/s with an overall average of 475 L/s
(Figure 3.7). Irrigation water supplies for existing cropping patterns range from 1130 to 1973
L/s with an overall average of 1444 L/s. On completion of the Balkh Canal offtake, AWATT
expects that water availability will decrease because of the diversion of part of the supply to the
Balkh Canal in line with water rights in the system. Water supplies to the Balkh Canal are also
likely to increase after completion of the Balkh Canal offtake and related conveyance system
(Figure 3.9). On completion of the Balkh Canal offtake, the estimated average supply of the
Siagard Canal is 967 L/s. With peak water demands observed in May and June, water supplies
may not be sufficient for cultivation of all cultivable areas. In-line or on-line water storage may
be possible during periods of low water demand and the concept should to be explored
further.
Figure 3.8 shows crop water demand and irrigation water supplies at the Mirzae. Measurements
recorded during this DA show that water supplies in this canal were greater than those
recorded at the Siagard and Balkh canals. A relatively high percentage (13 percent) of vegetable
crops were grown, indicating better irrigation water supplies compared to the Siagard and
Balkh canals, where vegetables were grown on less than one percent of the area.
Farmers in the Balkh Canal area faced severe shortages in irrigation water supply, with crop
demand ranging from 49 to 1571 L/s with an overall average of 522 L/s (Figure 3.9). Irrigation
water supplies varied from 252 to 437 L/s with an overall average of 321 L/s, two folds short of
crop water demand. Irrigation water supplies are likely to improve with the completion of the
new offtake from the Siagard Canal, scheduled for the end of 2009.
Severe water shortages exist in all the sampled canals irrigation service areas. Water shortages
have resulted in farmers cultivating only a small percentage of their cultivable land. There is a
clear need for conservation and better management of water resources in the area. AWATT
also recommends capacity-building initiatives for all stakeholders. Implementation of improved
water management practices such as raised beds, better flow control structures, and land
leveling is a positive way to promote water conservation in the area.
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Figure 2.7: Crop Water Demand and Irrigation Supply for the Siagard Canal
Figure 2.8: Crop Water Demand and Irrigation Supply for the Mirzae Canal
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Figure 2.9: Crop Water Demand and Irrigation Supply for the Balkh Canal
Plate 2.3: Collection of Flow Measurements
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SECTION III: AGRICULTURE
INTRODUCTION
Agriculture in Afghanistan is a major source of employment for the rural communities of the
country. The economy depends heavily on agriculture sector development, which needs to
expand and become more efficient to be able to cope with the future food and fiber demands
of an ever-increasing population. Agricultural production is a highly complex process involving
the interaction of a large number of disciplines from biological, physical and social sciences.
Having a sound policy framework, including effective price policies for agricultural input and
output is the key to developing a successful and vigorous natural agricultural sector. Despite the
lack of perfect policy frameworks currently in place, actual productivity of the farmers’ fields
can be determined through three important sets of inputs:



Availability of water;
Improved forms of tested production technologies; and
Timely provision of quality input at appropriate prices.
Reduced productivity is a result of deficiencies in these inputs and the inability of farmers to
capitalize on the full potential of their land.
This DA seeks to investigate the severity of the problem and to identify potentially feasible
crops and land and water management interventions at the farm level that will help improve
current productivity levels. One of the objectives of this analysis was to identify the strengths
and weaknesses of the existing agriculture system practiced in Mazar-e-Sharif. In the sampled
canals command areas, the cropping patterns and yields of major crops during summer and
winter seasons were determined from the data collected in the field through a performa
questionnaire developed as part of the study. A total of 59 farmers responded to questions
relating to the following issues:




Landholdings;
Cropping patterns;
Crop yields; and
Irrigation numbers and intervals in the sampled canals command areas in Balkh River
Basin.
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This section of the report presents a summary of findings relating to agricultural issues.
LANDHOLDING AND TENANCY STATUS
The average landholding per household in the sampled canals service area ranged from 3.76 to
15.66 ha with an overall average of 9.36 ha (Table 3.1). Observation of the data across canals
(Figure 3.1) suggested that the majority of farmers are owners and results show almost no
producer rents in the Balkh Canal. Sixty-three percent of farmers in the service areas of the
sampled canals were landowners, while 19 percent were tenants and a further 19 percent
owner/tenants (Figure 3.2). Landholdings per household are small, with overall average
landholding per household standing at two to three times greater than the cultivated area.
Measurements recorded during this DA show land ownership in the majority of land situated at
the tail reaches of the Siagard and Mirzae. In the Balkh area, land ownership is greatest at the
head reaches of the canal. The survey revealed no cases of land ownership at the tail reaches of
the Balkh Canal.
Table 3.1: Landholding by Location Along the Canals
Location Canal
Mirzae
Siagard
Head
Balkh
Mirzae
Siagard
Middle
Balkh
Mirzae
Siagard
Tail
Balkh
Owned Area
60
164
202
52
50
65
133
860
0
Rented Area
38
119
191
32
40
55
75
183
70
Figure 3.1: Tenancy Status of the Farmers at all Canal Service Areas
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Figure 3.2: Tenancy Status of Farmers at Siagard Canal Service Area
Table 3.2: Average Land Holdings and Cultivated Area During Summer And Winter Seasons Per
Household (2008-2009)
Sample Canal
1
2
3
Siagard
Balkh
Mirzae
Overall average
Sample
size
16
27
16
Total landholding
per household (ha)
15.66
8.67
3.76
9.36
Cultivated Area per
household (ha)
1.83
7.25
2.40
4.61
0.74
1.75
1.66
4.54
In general, the DA found that only 20 percent of the total cultivable land was cultivated in the
summer months, compared to 48 percent in the winter months, due in part to increased rainfall
and lower crop water demand during the winter season.
FALLOW LAND
Because of water shortages in the system and low rainfall, most land is left fallow, with
cultivated land per household during the summer and winter months in the command areas of
the three sampled canals ranging from 0.74 to 7.25 ha. Findings from this study show that
farmers, on average, cultivate only around 20 percent of the land area in the summer months
due to scarcity of water and relatively high irrigation requirements. During the winter season
up to three times more land is cultivated.
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Cropping intensity during the summer season ranged from 21.1 to 27.8 percent, compared to
44.7 to 53.1 percent in the winter season (Figure 3.3). Percentages of fallow land in the service
areas of the three sampled canals during the summer and winter seasons show that significant
portions of landholdings are left fallow due to insufficient supplies of irrigation water. Fallow
land during summer and winter seasons ranged from 72.7 to 87.9 percent and 46.9 to 55.3
percent respectively. Fallow land accounted for an average of around 80 percent of land in the
summer season and 52 percent in the winter season, due mainly to shortages of irrigation
water supply and low rainfall in the area.
Figure 3.3: Percentage of Fallow Land in the Three Sampled Canals
CROPPING PATTERNS
Data analysis shows wheat is the dominant crop grown during the winter season, accounting
for 33.3 to 39.3 percent of the land. Barley accounts for 4.4 to 10.8 percent of the service area
of the three sampled canals (Figures 3.4, 3.6 and 3.8). In the spring season cotton is the
dominant crop, accounting for 6.9 to 17.6 percent of the land, followed by melon, watermelon,
and vegetables grown on areas representing 1.5 to 10.9 percent, 2.4 to 4.6 percent, and 0.1 to
13.6 percent respectively (Figures 3.5, 3.7 and 3.9).
CROPPING CALENDAR
Wheat and barley are the major crops grown between mid-October and mid-November.
Harvesting of these crops typically takes place in June (Table 3.3). In the spring, alfalfa, cotton,
melon, watermelon, eggplant, okra, and cucumber are the predominant crops in the upstream
reaches of the service areas of the canals. In summer, maize, cumin, and sesame account for a
small percentage of the cultivable land area.
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Table 3.3: Cropping Calendar
Crop
Wheat
Barley
Autumn
Planting
Harvest
15 Oct - 15
Nov
1-30 Oct
Jun 1030
May 1-30
Cotton
Spring
Planting
Harvest
1-30 Apr
1-20 Oct
Maize
Sesame
1-30 Apr
Aug-Sep
Alfalfa
20 Feb to
20 Mar
15 Apr to 15
May
15 Apr to 15
May
15 Apr to 15
May
15 Apr to 15
May
15 Apr to 15
May
15 Apr to 15
May
Perennial
15 Apr to 15
May
Aug-Sep
Melon
Cucumber
Egg plant
Pepper
Okra
Onion
Peas
Oct-Nov
May-Jun
Carrot
Oct-Nov
May-Jun
Tomato
Summer
Planting
Harvest
15 Apr to 15
May
15 Aug to 15
Sep
30 Aug to 15
Oct
1 Jun to 31 July
Aug –Sep
July-Aug
Aug-Sep
Aug-Sep
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Figu
re
3.4: Winter Cropping Pattern at the Siagard Canal Service Area, 2008-2009
Figure 3.5: Summer Cropping Pattern at the Siagard Canal Service Area, 2009
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Figure 3.6: Winter Cropping Pattern at Balkh Canal Service Area, 2008-2009
Figure 3.7: Summer Cropping Pattern at Balkh Canal Service Area, 2009
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Figure 3.8: Winter Cropping Pattern at Mirzae Canal Service Area, 2008-2009
Figure 3.9: Summer Cropping Pattern at Mirzae Canal Service Area, 2009
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MAJOR CROP YIELDS
In the Balkh River Basin, yields of wheat and barley recorded 20,901,725 kg/ha at the head,
29,202,115 kg/ha at the middle and 21,501,895 kg/ha at the tail reaches of the sampled canals
(Table 3.4). In general, average yields of wheat, barley, cotton, and watermelon were higher at
the middle reaches of the sampled canals than at the head and tail reaches, possibly because of
over-irrigation at the head reaches and under-irrigation at the tail reaches where there is a
relatively lower availability of irrigation water. Yields of melon were significantly better at the
middle and tail reaches of the sampled canals due to the crop’s low water demand.
Table 3.4: Yields of Major Crops Grown in the Command Areas of the Sampled Canals
Crop
Sample Yield at
size
head
(kg/ha)
Sample Yield at
size
middle
(kg/ha)
Sample Yield at
size
tail
(kg/ha)
Sample Average
size
yield
(kg/ha)
Wheat
14
2090
19
2920
26
2150
59
2210
Barley
13
1725
10
2115
10
1895
33
1912
Cotton
13
2065
12
2445
17
1735
42
2082
Melon
9
13950
8
16925
8
16825
25
15900
Watermelon 9
33778
2
84000
8
54103
19
57294
Table 3.5 shows the minimum, maximum, and average production of major crops grown in the
area. This study recorded significant variations of between one and nine fold between the
minimum and maximum yields of the sampled crops. In general, average production at the tail
reaches of the canals was lower than that at the head and middle reaches. The DA concludes
that better management of water resources will result in enhanced wheat production in all
reaches of the canals.
Table 3.5: Range of Crops in the Command Areas of the Sampled Canals
Crop
Sample
size
Crop production (kg/ha)
Minimum
Maximum
Average
Wheat
Barley
Cotton
Melon
Watermelon
59
33
42
25
19
948
875
560
6,000
10,000
2,218
1,912
2,082
15,900
57,294
3,293
4,800
5,120
35,000
91,360
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IMPROVED SEED
Findings from the DA show a decrease in the use of improved seed varieties by farmers
situated further down the sampled canals. The least number of farmers applying improved seeds
are located in the tail reaches of the Siagard canal.
LIVESTOCK
The livestock subsector complements crop production by contributing cash income (sheep and
goats), improving family nutrition (dairy cow), soil fertility, and farm power in soil preparation
(bullocks). Figure 3.10 show that sheep and goats are the most common livestock, followed by
cows and bullocks. This study revealed an average of 14.1 sheep and 4.2 goats per household in
the service areas of the sampled canals. Each household surveyed also had an average of one
cow, one bullock, and one donkey. Due to drought and food shortages, especially during the
winter months, the amount of livestock has declined. There is a great potential for livestock
improvement through breeding, improved feed and effective management.
Figure 3.10: Number of Livestock per Household (HH) in the Command Area of the Sampled
Canals
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Figure 3.11: Livestock Per Farm Across the Sampled Canals
Figure 3.12: Livestock Per Jerib Across Sampled Canals
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Figure 3.13: Livestock Per Farm Across Location
Figure 3.14: Livestock Per Jerib Across Location
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IMPORTANT FACTORS IN PRODUCTIVITY IMPROVEMENT
EDUCATION
The DA gathered information on levels of education amongst farmers. Table 4.6 shows that at
least 50 percent of farmers across the canals have no education and that just 5 percent have 11
or more years of education. Results showed that there are no significant differences in
education levels between the various canals and sampled locations.
Table 3.6: Years of Education Among Surveyed Farmers
Years of Education Amongst Farmers
Canal
0 years
1-5 years
6-10 years
11 + years
Mirzae
Siagard
Balkh
68%
72%
48%
0%
6%
13%
16%
22%
35%
16%
0%
4%
AGE VARIABLES
The main aim of the age variable in this preliminary analysis was to identify the correlation
between education and age. Almost all the farmers in the age range of 21-40 years have no
education. Results show no significant differences between the various sampled canals and
locations (see Figure 3.15 and 3.16).
Figure 3.15: Education Correlation Across All Sampled Canals
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Figure 3.16: Education Correlation by Age and Location
MAIL EXTENSION SERVICE
The MAIL Extension Service in Mazar-e-Sharif has a mandate to extend the technology
developed at research institutes to farmers in the region, particularly those located in the Balkh
Canal service area. The Agricultural Research Institute of Afghanistan (ARIA) is responsible for
conducting all types of research relating to agriculture in the country.
The DA survey revealed that contact between farmers and MAIL Extension workers is
negligible. Most farmers mentioned that they gather information from progressive farmers in
their area and private dealers. There is a great need to mobilize MAIL Extension staff so that
farmers in the area can get access to the full benefits of modern technology developed by
research staff.
Findings from the DA show that farmers connected with the MAIL Extension Service via visits
to and from agents produce the most profitable crop and are located on the most irrigated
land. The exception is for farmers producing onion, who visit the MAIL Extension agents but do
not receive visits from them (Figure 3.17). Findings also show that farmers across the sampled
locations and canals visited by MAIL Extension agents are likely to clean the canals less
frequently compared to those not visited by the department (Figure 3.18).
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Figure 3.17: Percentage of Farmers by Crop Who Are Visited and Receive Visits from MAIL
Extension Agents
Figure 3.18: Comparison between MAIL Extension Agent Visits and Canal Cleaning
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FARMER INVOLVEMENT
The survey shows that the majority of farmers in the sample who participated in MAIL
Extension activities during past year were located at the Mirzae Canal. MAIL Extension activities
were least popular with farmers at the Balkh Canal.
Figure 3.19 – Farmer Involvement in Extension Activities
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Results of this DA suggest the need for improvements to agricultural productivity and market
access:



Improved water availability;
Increased availability of high quality seeds, fertilizers and farm machinery; and
Capacity building, training, and increased market access.
IMPROVED WATER AVAILABILITY
Water availability must be enhanced and training arranged for better on-farm water
management. Water saving technologies such as drop irrigation, minimum or zero tillage, land
levelling and plastic mulching for conservation of moisture should be promoted. In order to
increase productivity farmers also need to understand irrigation requirements in the growth
stages of each crop and make use of the technical advice provided.
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INCREASED AVAILABILITY OF HIGH QUALITY SEEDS, FERTILIZERS AND FARM
MACHINERY
Disease and insect infestation remains a great problem, with the majoirty of farmers
complaining about infestation by aphids, cutworms and root rots in alfalfa, cucumber, okra and
other crops. Farmers also complain about the low quality of plant protection chemicals and
phosphorus-based fertilizers.
It can be concluded the MAIL needs to play a more prominent role in providing adequate
facilities and resources to assist farmers with plant protection issues, and to encourage farmers
to participate actively in the judicious use of high quality insecticides and fertilizers.
Extension workers from provincial agricultural departments should visit farms more frequently
to inform farmers of the availability of better quality of fertilizers, seeds, pesticides, and to
advise on other technical issues including quality control and food security. Strengthening of the
MAIL Extension Service will help agents to transfer new technologies more effectively to
farmers.
CAPACITY BUILDING, TRAINING AND GREATER MARKET ACCESS
The majority of farmers in the service areas of the sampled canals have not received any formal
training. A small percentage of farmers have received training in plant protection and
production through the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and
other nongovernmental organizations. Most farmers surveyed showed interest in agricultural
training, particularly in relation to plant protection, production technologies, and water
management. Survey results also indicated the need for more judicious use of fertilizers,
pesticides and insecticides and improvements in agronomic practices and productivity in
relation to seed rates, water application, and cultivation methods. Low soil fertility in some
areas combined with high disease and insect infestation rates remain a cause for concern.
Farmers also complained about low yields and the quality of plant protection and fertilizer
chemicals available, particularly the use of phosphorus. Results of the survey indicate the
prohibitive cost or non-availability of quality seeds, insecticides, fertilizers, and farm machinery,
as well as perceived flaws in the MAIL Extension Service. Results of the DA survey also
indicated a desire for greater and improved access to transportation and market facilities,
veterinary services and bank loans for small farmers, as well as the strengthening of farmer
organizations and the development of demonstration plots.
In order to increase agricultural production, productivity, and income, AWATT recommends
that farmers receive technical training not limited to agricultural issues. Farmers should acquire
the knowledge to understand concepts of cost and return analyses and net profit and loss.
An effective marketing system needs to be put in place to allow farmers to gain sufficient
income from their land through the purchase of input and sale of products. Quality inputs must
be made available to the market and farmers should have access to input through credit and
purchase of their products. Access to storage and cold chain facilities may also enhance market
linkages and infrastructure.
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ANNEX 1
PARTICIPANTS IN THE DIAGNOSTIC ANALYSIS WORKSHOP
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
Name of Participant
Mr. Khaja Sayed Jon
Mr. Sayed Jamaludin
Mr. Muhammad Ismail YoDarya Sufzai
Mr. Abdul Hai Siddiq
Mr. Abdul Ahmad Loqmani
Mr. Hayat Khan Shams
Mr. Abdul Ayub Wardak
Mr. Gul Ahmad
Mr. Ahmad Shah
Ms. Nasima Parsa
Mr. Abdul Karim Mateem
Mr. Ghulam Ali
Mr. Masoud
Mr. Gul Bahram Halimi
Mr. Abdul Basee Noor
Mr. Habibullah
Mr. Muhammad Shafi
Mr. Lutfuddin Nizamy
Mr. Khan Badshah
Mr. Esmatullah
Mr. Muhammad Amin
Mr. Muhammad Khan
Ms. Karima Rahrao
Ms. Latifa
Mr. Gholam Sakhy Sultany
Dr. Fazluddin Fazl
Mr. Mohammad Wasi
Mr. Ahmad Ali
Mr. Farhad Wardak
Organization
MAIL
MAIL
MAIL
MAIL
MAIL
MAIL
MAIL
MAIL
MAIL
MAIL
MAIL
MEW
MEW
MEW
MEW
MEW
MEW
MEW
MEW
MEW
MEW
MEW
MEW
MEW
MEW
Faculty of Ag, Kabul University
PCU
MRRD
MRRD
Afghanistan Water, Agriculture and Technology Transfer Program
Origin
Kabul
Kabul
Kabul
Kabul
Jalalabad
Jalalabad
Jalalabad
Jalalabad
Mazar-e-Sharif
Mazar-e-Sharif
Mazar-e-Sharif
Baghlan
Jawzjan
Kabul
Jalalabad
Takhar
Kabul
Kunduz
Kapisa
Mazar-e-Sharif
Mazar-e-Sharif
Mazar-e-Sharif
Mazar-e-Sharif
Mazar-e-Sharif
Mazar-e-Sharif
Kabul
Mazar-e-Sharif
Kabul
Kabul
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AWATT Balkh Watershed Diagnostic Analysis Report
ANNEX II: PROGRAM OVERVIEW AND SCHEDULE
Afghanistan Water, Agriculture and Technology Transfer (AWATT) Diagnostic Assessment of
Irrigation Systems, June 6 – June 19, 2009
Saturday, June 6
Morning
Topics
Program Overview
What is a Diagnostic Assessment?
What is an Irrigation system?
Lunch
Afternoon
Location/Logistics
Hotel/
University
(Translators Needed)
Overview Continued
Build Interdisciplinary Teams
Comments
Sunday, June 7
Understanding issues in the Main Canal System
Morning
Overview of GIS Perspectives on Balkh
Watershed
Basic Agronomic Perspectives on Irrigation and
Crop Production
Lunch
At Hotel/
University
(Translators Needed)
Sociological Approaches to issues in Irrigation
and watershed management
Afternoon
Understanding Issues in On-Farm Water
Management
Review
Comments
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AWATT Balkh Watershed Diagnostic Analysis Report
Monday, June 8
Economic Analysis of Watersheds and Water
Allocation Institutions
Morning
Political, Legal and Institutional Dimensions of the
Afghanistan Water system
Extensions as required
Lunch
Afternoon
Hotel/
University
(Translators Needed)
Review of Presentations and Prepare for Whole
Group Rapid Appraisal
Tuesday, June 9
Morning
Lunch
Afternoon
Car/Trucks Needed
for up to 20 people
Full Day of Whole Group Appraisal and Tour
Tour stops chosen
Laptops for Notes
Comments
Wed, June 10
Morning
Lunch
Afternoon
Full Day of Individual, Interdisciplinary Group
Appraisal and Tour
Car/Trucks Needed
for up to 20 people;
3 tour stops chosen
by Groups;
Laptops for Notes
Full Day of Individual, Interdisciplinary Group
Appraisal and Tour
Car/Trucks Needed
for up to 20 people;
3 tour stops chosen
by Groups;
Laptops for Notes
Comments
Thursday, June 11
Morning
Lunch
Afternoon
Comments
Friday, June 12
Morning
Lunch
Afternoon
Comments
Prayers
Review of lessons learned
Afghanistan Water, Agriculture and Technology Transfer Program
63
AWATT Balkh Watershed Diagnostic Analysis Report
Saturday, June 13
Morning
Lunch
Afternoon
Topics
Group Presentations on Findings, Gaps and
Follow up Needs
Location/Logistics
Joint meetings with selected stakeholders
Hotel/
University
(Translators Needed)
Comments
Sunday, June 14
Morning
Lunch
Afternoon
Full Day of Individual, Interdisciplinary
Group Appraisal and Tour, with Focus on
Advanced Assessment,
including stakeholder interactions
Car/Trucks Needed for up to 20 people;
3 tour stops chosen by Groups;
Laptops for Notes
Recap of the Day
Comments
Monday, June 15
Morning
Lunch
Afternoon
Comments
Tuesday, June 16
Morning
Lunch
Afternoon
Full Day of Individual, Interdisciplinary
Group Appraisal and Tour with Focus on
Advanced Assessment
Car/Trucks Needed for up to 20 people
Recap of the Day
Laptops for Notes
Full Day of Individual, Interdisciplinary
Group Appraisal and Tour with Focus on
Advanced Assessment
Car/Trucks Needed for up to 20 people
3 Tour stops chosen by Groups
Tour stops chosen
Laptops for Notes
Afghanistan Water, Agriculture and Technology Transfer Program
64
AWATT Balkh Watershed Diagnostic Analysis Report
Wed, June 17
Morning
Lunch
Group Presentations on Findings, analyses and potential
agenda for AWATT, universities and ministries
Hotel/
University
(Translators Needed)
Afternoon
Comments
Thurs, June 18
Morning
Final Report: Lessons Learned and Future Agenda
Lunch
Hotel/
University
(Translators Needed)
Afternoon
Comments
Fri, June 19
Morning
Lunch
Afternoon
Comments
Leave Workshop
Afghanistan Water, Agriculture and Technology Transfer Program
65