Chapter – 8

Irrigation Planning and Command Area

8.0 General
Krishnagiri dam across Ponnaiyar river is a medium existing irrigation project
in Krishnagiri district envisaging irrigation to an area of 3642 ha, utilizing 57 Mm3 of water
annually benefitting Krishnagiri taluka. This command area lies away from the proposed
Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar link project. The Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar link project is
proposed to stabilise the existing irrigation in the area enroute the link canal and at tail end
to an extent of 9850 ha in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts in Ponnaiyar and Palar basins in
Tamil Nadu.

Presently, the main source of irrigation in the proposed command area under
the link Project is only ground water through bore wells and open wells. The open wells
account for more than 90% of the area being irrigated and besides irrigation use, ground
water is the only source for domestic use in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts of Tamil Nadu in
the vicinity of Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar link project. The ground water assessment by
Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) indicates that the ground water usage increased above
100% in all the blocks of Vaniyambadi taluka of Vellore district and the same have been
categorized as over-exploited for future ground water development. Annual ground water
extraction is almost twice the annual replenishable ground water.

Keeping in view the above scenario the Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar link
project has been planned to divert the flood water from Ponnaiyar river for recharging the
sub-surface flow for utilisation in Vaniyambadi taluka of Vellore district, besides feeding
enroute tanks for recharging the ground water in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts for
irrigation use and drinking water supply purpose. The recharged ground water is proposed
to be used to stabilise the existing command area under these tanks. No new command
areas are identified in the vicinity of the link canal.

The Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar link project envisages transfer of 86 Mm3 of

flood water that spills down the existing Krishnagiri dam from the proposed head regulator
at existing Nedungal Anicut. Out of 86 Mm3 of water, it is proposed to utilise 75.141 Mm3 for
irrigation and 3.882 Mm3 of water for drinking water supply to enroute villages.

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8.1 Existing/Proposed Irrigation Facilities in the Proposed Project
Command Area
The existing area covered under the minor schemes through ponds/tanks,
open wells, bore wells/tube wells in the vicinity of the proposed link project during 2013-14
in Krishnagiri and Pochampalli talukas of Krishnagiri district and Tirupattur and Vaniyambadi
talukas of Vellore district is given in Table-8.1.

Table - 8.1
Source-wise Irrigation Particulars of the Command Area
During 2013-14
Unit : ha
Sl. Source in the Krishnagiri District Vellore District
No. Project Command Krishnagiri Pochampalli Tirupattur Vaniyambadi
A Existing Schemes
1. Canal 499 257 - -
2. Ponds/Tanks 3473 2107 - -
3. Tube Wells/Bore Wells 3997 647 1394 635
4. Open wells 24380 14005 7909 9212
B Proposed schemes ---Nil---
Total 32349 17016 9303 9847

Source: G-Return-Department of Economics and Statistics, Krishnagiri and Vellore districts,

Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

The irrigation under canals is very meager in the command area.

There are no major/medium existing/ongoing/proposed irrigation projects in

the command area of link canal project.

The following existing command areas under minor schemes are proposed to be benefitted
under the Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar Intra-state link project.
(i) Supplying drinking water to enroute villages and stabilisation of enroute command area
(1900 ha) existing under open wells and bore wells in Krishnagiri and Pochampalli
talukas of Krishnagiri district and Tirupattur taluka of Vellore district. This is done by
feeding water from the link canal to the enroute tanks and thereby improving ground
water potential. The enroute command area lies in Ponnaiyar and Palar basins.

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(ii) Stabilisation of existing command area (7950 ha) under open wells and bore wells in
Vaniyambadi taluka of Vellore district in Palar basin. This is done by diverting water to
the Kal-Ar of Palar river for recharge of ground water potential.

8.1.1 Enroute Command Area in Krishnagiri and Vellore

Districts in Ponnaiyar and Palar Basins
The main source of irrigation in the areas enroute of Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) -
Palar link canal is only ground water through open wells and bore wells. Irrigation through
open wells is predominant. Many tanks are existing in the vicinity of the link canals which
depend on rainfall. The extent of irrigated area covered enroute in Krishnagiri and
Pochampalli talukas of Krishnagiri district and Tirupattur taluka of Vellore district is shown in
Table-8.1. Due to non-availability of canal irrigation facilities in the existing command area
the areas depend mainly on rainfall and ground water for irrigation, domestic and industrial
uses.

8.1.2 Tail end command area in Vaniyambadi Taluka of Vellore

District in Palar Basin
The main source of irrigation in all the blocks of Vaniyambadi taluka of
Vellore district is ground water through open wells and bore wells. Tank irrigation practices
by harvesting rainwater is also available to some extent. The total area covered under
irrigation in Vaniyambadi taluka is shown in Table-8.1. The ground water in Vaniyambadi
taluka is over exploited and the stage of ground water extraction is ranges between 142%
and 201%. Also, it is observed that during monsoon seasons the Ponnaiyar river is usually
in spate while the Palar river mostly remains dry. Therefore, it is proposed to augment the
sub-surface flow by diverting flood flows from the existing Krishnagiri dam (on Ponnaiyar
river) in order to stabilise the existing command area.

8.2 Existing Cropping Pattern

8.2.1 Existing Area under Rain-fed Cultivation
[Link] Enroute Command Area in Krishnagiri and Vellore Districts of
Ponnaiyar and Palar Basins
The existing command area enroute the link canal in Krishnagiri and Vellore
districts is mainly irrigated from tanks and wells utilising rainfall and ground water. However,
the ground water is over exploited and rainfall became scarce in these areas.

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 Therefore, it is proposed to stabilise the existing irrigation in water scarce
areas enroute the link canal in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts by improving the ground
water potential by diversion of flood water through the link canal project.

The important crops grown enroute the link canal are mainly paddy, maize
jowar, ragi, pulses, oil seeds, cotton and sugarcane. The existing cropping pattern under the
enroute canal both in Krishnagiri and Vellore district areas is similar. The existing cropping
pattern both in irrigated and un-irrigated conditions enroute the link canal in Krishnagiri,
Pochampalli and Tirupattur blocks is shown in Tables-8.2 to 8.4 respectively.

Table-8.2
Existing Cropping Pattern in Krishnagiri Block during 2013-14
Unit: ha
Sl. Crop Kharif Rabi Total
No. Irr. Un. Total Irr. Un. irr Total Irr. [Link] Total
irr
1 Paddy 11378 0 11378 4149 0 4149 15527 0 15527
2 Cholam 35 1619 1654 0 13 13 35 1632 1667
3 Cumbu 183 172 355 22 26 48 205 198 403
4 Ragi 2029 3047 5076 1890 451 2341 3919 3498 7417
5 Maize 12 17 29 1 0 1 13 17 30
6 Samai 0 53 53 0 0 0 0 53 53
7 Pulses 273 13278 13551
8 Other food grains 0 0 0
9 Total food grains 19972 18676 38648
10 Mango 31 15188 15219
11 Banana 429 0 429
12 Other fruits 120 9 129
13 Vegetables 2744 36 2780
14 Sugar cane 339 31 370
15 Other food crops 587 379 966
Total food crops 24222 34319 58541
16 Groundnut 492 2886 3378 357 116 473 849 3002 3851
17 Gingelly 0 50 50 4 0 4 4 50 54
18 Coconut 4860 486 5346
19 Other oil seeds 10 142 152
20 Flowers 840 0 840
21 Misc. Non food crops 1507 352 1859
22 Cotton 57 151 57 151 208
Total Non-food crops 8127 4183 12310

Source: G-Return - Department of Economics and Statistics, Krishnagiri taluka,

Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

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 Table-8.3
Existing Cropping Pattern in Pochampalli Block during 2013-14
Unit: ha
Sl. Crop Kharif Rabi Total
No
Irr. Un. Total Irr. Un. Total Irr. Un. Total
irr irr irr
1 Paddy 4506 0 4506 1520 0 1520 6026 0 6026
2 Cholam 650 650 0 0 0 0 650 650
3 Cumbu 78 0 78 0 0 0 78 0 78
4 Ragi 1243 601 1844 667 0 667 1910 601 2511
5 Maize 440 0 440 74 0 74 514 0 514
6 Samai 0 91 91 0 0 0 0 91 91
7 Pulses 167 8523 8690
8 Other food grains 0 0 0
9 Total food grains 8695 9865 18560
10 Mango 0 11377 11377
11 Banana 57 0 57
12 Other fruits 46 4 50
13 Vegetables 1052 9 1061
14 Sugar cane 59 15 74
15 Other food crops 462 87 549
Total food crops 10371 21357 31728
16 Groundnut 7 928 935 213 0 213 220 928 1148
17 Gingelly 0 0.4 0.4 0 0 0 0 0.4 0.4
18 Coconut 6076 0 6076
19 Other oil seeds 10 142 152
20 Flowers 137 0 137
21 Misc. Non food crops 86 70.6 156.6
22 Cotton 57 151 116 232 348
Total Non-food crops 6645 1373 8018

Source: G-Return - Department of Economics and Statistics, Pochampalli taluka,

Govt. of Tamil Nadu

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 Table-8.4
Existing Cropping Pattern in Tirupattur Block During 2013-14
Unit: ha
Sl. Crop Kharif Rabi Total
No.
Irr. Un. Total Irr. Un. Total Irr. Un. irr Total
irr irr
1 Paddy 774 0 774 1101 0 1101 1875 0 1875
2 Wheat 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
3 Cholam 0 843 843 0 0 0 0 843 843
4 Cumbu 0 486 486 27 0 27 27 486 513
5 Ragi 0 1860 1860 684 0 684 684 1860 2544
6 Maize 137 0 137 351 0 351 488 0 488
7 Samai 0 1120 1120 0 0 0 0 1120 1120
8 Pulses 72 6916 6988
9 Other food grains 0 21 21
10 Total food grains 3146 11246 14392
11 Mango 0 2183 2183
12 Banana 633 0 633
13 Other fruits 358 32 390
14 Vegetables 451 142 593
15 Sugar cane 1194 8 1202
16 Other food crops 126 119 245
Total food crops 5908 13730 19638
17 Groundnut 0 2400 2400 550 0 550 550 2400 2950
18 Gingelly 0 26 26 12 0 12 12 26 38
19 Coconut 2325 0 2325
20 Other oil seeds 7 26 33
21 Flowers 130 0 130
22 Misc. Non food crops 267 288 555
23 Cotton 104 2696 104 2696 2800
Total Non-food crops 3395 5436 8831

Source: G-Return - Department of Economics and Statistics, Tirupattur taluka,

Govt. of Tamil Nadu

[Link] Command Area in Vaniyambadi Taluka of Vellore District

in Palar Basin at Out-fall Point
The existing command area in Vaniyambadi taluka of Vellore district in Palar
basin is irrigated by utilising rainfall and ground water through tanks, bore wells/tube wells
and open wells. The existing domestic requirement of towns/villages in Palar basin is mainly
met by ground water. No other sources of water are available in Vaniyambadi taluka. Hence,

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it is proposed to use the diverted water for recharging ground water so that part of the
existing command area in water deficit Vaniyambadi taluka of Vellore district in upper
reaches of Palar basin can be stabilised. The existing cropping pattern both under irrigated
and un-irrigated conditions in Vaniyambadi block during the year 2013-14 is shown in
Table-8.5.

Table-8.5
Existing Cropping Pattern in Vaniyambadi Block during 2013-14
Unit: ha
Sl. Crop Kharif Rabi Total
No. Irr. Un. Total Irr. Un. Total Irr. Un. Total
irr irr irr
1 Paddy 618 0 618 588 0 588 1206 0 1206
2 Cholam 0 471 471 0 0 0 0 471 471
3 Cumbu 0 462 462 62 0 62 62 462 524
4 Ragi 0 410 410 428 0 428 428 410 838
5 Maize 567 0 567 614 0 614 1181 0 1181
6 Samai 0 473 473 0 0 0 0 473 473
7 Pulses 11 4048 4059
8 Other food grains 0 3 3
9 Total food grains 2888 5867 8755
10 Mango 0 1236 1236
11 Banana 717 0 717
12 Other fruits 157 0 157
13 Vegetables 388 34 422
14 Sugar cane 1249 1 1250
15 Other food crops 78 100 178
Total food crops 5477 7238 12715
16 Groundnut 0 2891 2891 63 0 63 63 2891 2954
17 Gingelly 0 2 2 5 0 5 5 2 7
18 Coconut 3612 0 3612
19 Other oil seeds 31 15 46
20 Flowers 107 0 107
21 Misc. Non food crops 159 72 231
22 Cotton 1920 192 192 1920 2112
Total Non-food crops 4169 4900 9069

Source: G-Return - Department of Economics and Statistics, Vaniyambadi taluka,

Govt. of Tamil Nadu

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[Link] Rainfall During Monsoon (Max, Min and Normal Rainfall)
Krishnagiri district has a mountainous terrain with average rainfall of 830 mm
per annum. July-November is the rainy season. The average annual rainfall in the district
based on statistical data from 2001 to 2004 varies from about 750 to 900 mm. The average
number of rainy days is about 48 days per annum. The district is under the influence of
both southwest and northeast monsoons. The mean annual rainfall of Krishnagiri located in
the vicinity of off-take point of the link project, for the period from 1901 to 2007 is about
882 mm. Out of this, the monsoon rainfall is 706 mm. The monthly maximum rainfall of
Krishnagiri is about 183 mm during September and monthly minimum rainfall is about 29
mm in the month of December.

Vellore district also receives rainfall from both southwest and northeast
monsoon similar to Krishnagiri district. The annual rainfall for Vellore district based on the
record from 1901 to 1980 is about 950 mm. The annual normal rainfall at Vellore based on
the statistical record from 1961 to 1990 is 1023 mm, of which the monsoon rainfall is about
748 mm during July to November. The average number of rainy days are about 56 days per
annum. The contribution of southeast monsoon ranges from 45 to 52%, whereas it ranges
from 30 to 43% due to northeast monsoon. The mean annual rainfall of Vaniyambadi based
on the records for the period from 1901 to 2007 is about 800 mm of which 668 mm is
during monsoon. The average monthly maximum and minimum rainfall of Vaniyambadi is
157 mm and 81 mm in the months of September and July respectively. The mean annual
rainfall of Tirupattur is about 878 mm of which 724 mm is during monsoon based on the
record from 1901 to 2007. The average monthly maximum and minimum rainfall of
Tirupattur is 165 mm and 85 mm during September and November respectively.

[Link] Rainfall During Non-Monsoon (Max, Min and Normal Rainfall)

Non-monsoon prevails during December to June both in Krishnagiri and
Vellore districts. March to June is the summer season and during December to February
winter prevails. Very little rainfall occurs during the non-monsoon period in these districts.
The average non-monsoon rainfall of Krishnagiri for the period from 1901 to 2007 is about
176 mm. The average monthly maximum and minimum rainfall is about 109 mm and 6 mm
during the months of May and February respectively. In case of Vaniyambadi these values
are 82 mm and 4 mm in the months of May and February and the average non-monsoon
rainfall is about 132 mm where as these values are 94 mm and 5 mm in the months of May
and February in case of Tirupattur and the average non-monsoon rainfall of about 154 mm.

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8.2.2 Net Increase in the Irrigation Facilities Due to Project
The proposed Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar link project will be a boon to the
existing command areas enroute the link canal in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts of Tamil
Nadu in Ponnaiyar and Palar basins, where the existing source of water supply for drinking
and irrigation is ground water/rainfall. Recharging the ground water by using the proposed
diversion of 86 Mm3 of flood flow waters from the link canal will enhance the ground water
potential and also improves quality of water. The diverted water through this link is
sufficient to stabilise 9850 ha of the existing command area presently being served by open
wells and bore wells in the vicinity of the project area. Thus, the proposed link canal project
will be very helpful to enhance the overall development of the region.

8.3. Soil Surveys

8.3.1 Soil Capability Classification
Soil surveys were not conducted in the vicinity of project area. However,
based on the particulars contained in the Hydro-geological Atlas of Tamil Nadu brought out
by the Central Ground water Board the soils in the vicinity of the project in Krishnagiri and
Vellore districts are broadly grouped as (i) Red sandy clay loam soils, (ii) Brown clay loam,
(iii) Recent/old alluvial soils, and (iv) Rock outcrops with loamy sand soils in Krishnagiri
district and (i) Brown clay loam soils, and (ii) Rock outcrops with loamy sand soils in
Vellore district.

The red sandy clay loam soils are partly matured soils and they are shallow to
deep possessing good drainage characteristics. These soils are suitable for cultivation of
large variety of crops including ragi, bajra, jowar, paddy, etc., both under irrigated and rain-
fed conditions. The Brown clay loam soils are moderately well drained and have rapid to
moderately rapid permeability. Crops like cotton, jowar, pulses, chilies, onion, groundnut,
etc., are cultivable in these soils. The recent/old Alluvial soils are generally fertile and
respond well to management practices and are suitable for cultivation of crops like paddy,
sugarcane, jowar, groundnut, chilies, pulses, etc,. The rock outcrops with loamy sand soils
respond well to irrigation, manuring and other management practices. The crops grown
under rain-fed cultivation are ragi, jowar, millets, pulses and oil seeds. Under irrigation
crops like ragi, jowar, groundnut and pulses are grown.

Distribution of soils in Ponnaiyar and Palar basin are shown in Figs-8.1 and
8.2 respectively. The same are at Plate - 8.1 and 8.2 respectively.

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125
126
8.3.2 Land Irrigability Classification
Though there are different soil groups in the vicinity of the link canal, a
specific irrigability class to each of the soil group is not assigned due to inadequate data on
soils and land use.

Based on the physio-chemical characteristics of the soils deep to very deep

soils in the above group of soils could be brought under irrigation provided the depth of
water table, slope and drainage do not become limiting factors. However, shallow soils
should be put under permanent pastures and grazing lands. The link canal envisages to
stabilize part of existing irrigated areas enroute the link canal as well as at tail end in
Vaniyambadi taluka of Vellore district in Palar basin.

8.4 Agro-Climatic Conditions

As per the agro-climatic zoning of Tamil Nadu major part of the area to be
benefited under the link project falls in Palar basin which is water deficit and prone to
frequent droughts. The command area to be benefited lies in Krishnagiri and Vellore
districts.

Krishnagiri district basically has a mountainous terrain. The eastern part of

the district experiences hot climate and the western part contrastingly has a pleasant
climate. The climate is hot during summer (March to June) and pleasant in winter
(December to February). During summer season (April to May) the maximum daily
temperature is about 37.1o C and the daily minimum temperature is about 17.2o C in the
plains. The lowest temperature is reached in January. The climatic condition of Ponnaiyar
basin lying in Krishnagiri area is assessed by the characteristics of the observed parameters
of Dharmapuri IMD observatory.

The Vellore district enjoys a tropical climate. The highest temperatures are
recorded during May and June. The mean daily maximum and minimum temperature is
36.8o C and 18.2o C. The highest and lowest extreme temperature recorded in the district is
45.0o C and 10.4o C.

The climatic condition of Palar basin lying in Vaniyambadi taluka is assessed

by the characteristics of the observed parameters of Vellore IMD observatory which is
located in central region of the basin. As per the IMD observatory of Vellore the average
daily maximum temperature is about 38.9o C in May and the daily minimum temperature is

127
about 18.1o C in January. The normal daily maximum and minimum temperature recorded
during 1961-1990 is 33.7o C and 22.6o C respectively.

The monthly normal rainfall, temperature, humidity, wind velocity,

evaporation and cloud cover pertaining to Dharmapuri and Vellore IMD stations are shown
in Annexures-8.1 and 8.2.

8.5 Proposed Cropping Pattern

Keeping in view that 86 Mm3 flood water is proposed for diversion from
Krishnagiri dam, the existing cropping pattern, soil suitability, climatic conditions, the
cropping pattern has been proposed in the command area enroute the link canal in
Krishnagiri and Vellore districts and at tail end in Vaniyambadi taluka of Vellore district in
Palar basin. These are described as under:

(i) Stabilisation of existing command area (part) in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts to an
extent of 1900 ha, enroute.
(ii) Stabilisation of existing command area (part) in Vaniyambadi taluka of Vellore district
under Palar basin to an extent of 7950 ha, at tail end.

Since, the soil suitability and the existing cropping pattern are almost similar
in both Krishnagiri and Vellore districts in the vicinity of the link canal command the same
cropping pattern has been proposed commonly for the entire command area to be stabilised
by the link canal enroute as well as at tail-end command of the link canal.

The proposed cropping pattern (based on the existing cropping pattern in the
year 2013-14) received from the Joint Director, District Agriculture office, Department of
Agriculture, Vellore, Govt. of Tamil Nadu and extent of command area under the link canal
project in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts is given in Table-8.6.

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 Table - 8.6
Proposed Cropping Pattern under the Link Canal
unit : ha
Sl. Name of crop % of Area
No. CCA Total
Enroute Tail end
Kharif
1. Paddy 35 665 2783 3448

2. Ragi/Jowar/Bajra 6 114 477 591

3. Groundnut 8 152 636 788

4. Cotton 7 133 557 690

5. Pulses 6 114 477 591

6. Maize 2 38 159 197

Rabi

7. Paddy 15 285 1190 1475

8. Ragi/Maize/Bajra 5 95 398 493

9. Groundnut 1 19 80 99

10. Pulses 8 152 636 788

Perennial

11. Sugarcane 7 133 557 690

Total 100 1900 7950 9850

It is proposed to stabilise the existing command area to an extent of 1900 ha

enroute the link canal and 7950 ha at tail end of link canal.

The cropping Pattern adopted as above under the Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) -

Palar link project has been got authenticated by the Joint Director of Agriculture,
Department of Agriculture, Vellore, Tamil Nadu vide letter No. E2/10557/14 dated
11.12.2014 (Annexure-8.3).

8.5.1 Proposed Irrigation Facilities

[Link] Enroute Command
The proposed link canal passes through Ponnaiyar basin and Palar basin in
Krishnagiri and Vellore districts. Enroute command area of the link canal lies in both

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Krishnagiri and Vellore districts and the tail end command area identified in Palar basin is in
Vellore district only. About 1900 ha of existing culturable command area enroute the link
canal is proposed to be stabilised through recharge of the ground water potential (presently
under irrigation through open wells and Bore wells) falls in Krishnagiri (943 ha) and
Pochampalli (313 ha) talukas of Krishnagiri district and Tirupattur taluka (644 ha) of Vellore
district. The intensity of irrigation proposed under the project enroute the link canal is
100%.

The taluka-wise command area enroute the link canal in Krishnagiri and
Vellore districts has been worked out based on the details supplied by the Ponnaiyar Basin
Division, Dharmapuri and Upper Palar Basin Division, Vellore, PWD, WRD, Govt. of Tamil
Nadu. Out of the tanks lying on the right side of the link canal being maintained by the
PWD, Govt. of Tamil Nadu in Pochampalli and Tirupattur talukas the system tanks which are
closer to the link canal were selected to supply the water by gravity from the link canal. For
Krishnagiri taluka it is planned to release water into Bargur River at RD 29.581 km by
providing a suitable canal escape/outlet in order to feed the canal system of the existing
Weir downstream of the canal crossing across the Bargur River. Location of the enroute
command area of the link canal is shown in Fig.8.3 and the same is shown in Plate – 8.3.

[Link] Tail end Command at Out-fall Point in Vaniyambadi

Taluka of Vellore District
Apart from benefitting enroute command in Vellore district under Ponnaiyar
basin, the link canal is proposed to stabilise the existing command area by means of
recharging the ground water potential to an extent of about 7950 ha in Vaniyambadi taluka
of Vellore district which is being irrigated by open wells and bore wells under Palar basin.
Location of the command area at the tail end of the link canal is also shown in Fig.8.3 and
the same is shown in Plate – 8.3 above.

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131
8.5.2 Scope for Double and Multiple Cropping Pattern and
Change in Cropping Pattern
Due to non-availability of canal irrigation facilities in the existing command
area the farmers mainly depend on rainfall and ground water for irrigation. Since the ground
water is over exploited and the stage of ground water development is very high leading to
the availability of ground water for future irrigation development being almost nil, stabilising
the existing irrigation in the command area is only possible by utilising the available flood
waters of Ponnaiyar river at Krishnagiri dam through the proposed link canal scheme. The
diverted water is proposed to be utilised for recharging the ground water enroute the link
canal and in Palar basin, thereby stabilizing the existing command area to an extent of
about 9850 ha, presently being irrigated through open wells and bore wells.

In light of the above scenario, double cropping pattern/multiple cropping

pattern is not feasible.

8.6 Crop Water Requirement

The crop water requirement for each crop included in the cropping pattern in
the command area to be stabilise through Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) – Palar link has been
worked out by climatological approach as per modified Penman’s method. The irrigation
efficiency has been considered as 65% for all crops by tank irrigation and 81% for all crops
by Groundwater. The details are given in Annexure-8.4.1 & 8.4.2. The value of weighted
average delta has been worked out and found to be 0.911 m for tank irrigation and 0.731 m
for Groundwater irrigation as given in Annexure-8.5.1 & 8.5.2 respectively.

The crop wise water requirement for the command area in enroute and at
tail-end of the link canal (Vaniyambadi taluk) is given in Tables-8.7 and 8.8 respectively.

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 Table-8.7
Crop Water Requirement for Enroute Command
C.C.A: 1900 ha
Sl. Name of crop CCA Area under Water
No. % each crop (ha) requirement
(Mm3)

Kharif
1. Paddy 35 665 9.337
2. Ragi/Jowar/Bajra 6 114 0.244
3. Groundnut 8 152 0.301
4. Cotton 7 133 0.372
5. Pulses 6 114 0.173
6. Maize 2 38 0.081
Rabi
7. Paddy 15 285 4.730
8. Ragi/Maize/Bajra 5 95 0.420
9. Groundnut 1 19 0.038
10. Pulses 8 152 0.153
Perennial
11. Sugarcane 7 133 1.366
Total 100 1900 17.215

A quantum of 17.215 Mm3 of diverted water is required to stabilise the

existing command area of 1900 ha enroute the link canal.

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 Table - 8.8
Crop Water Requirement for Tail-end Command
C.C.A: 7950 ha
Sl. Name of crop CCA Area under Water
No. % each crop (ha) Requirement
(Mm3)
Kharif
1. Paddy 35 2783 31.355
2. Ragi/Jowar/Bajra 6 477 0.821
3. Groundnut 8 636 1.009
4. Cotton 7 557 1.247
5. Pulses 6 477 0.577
6. Maize 2 159 0.274
Rabi
7. Paddy 15 1190 15.853
8. Ragi/Maize/Bajra 5 398 1.475
9. Groundnut 1 80 0.143
10. Pulses 8 636 0.582
Perennial
11. Sugarcane 7 557 4.590

Total 100 7950 57.926

A quantum of 57.926 Mm3 of diverted water is required to stabilise the

existing command area of 7950 ha at the tail end of the link canal.

Crop-wise monthly gross irrigation requirement enroute the link canal and at
tail end using the climatological data are given in Annexures-8.6 and 8.7 respectively.

The month-wise break up of crop water requirement for the command area
proposed for stabilization under the link project is given in Table-8.9.

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 Table - 8.9
Month-wise Crop Water Requirement for the Command Area
Under the Link Canal
Irrigation Intensity : 100%
Annual Irrigation : 9850 ha

Sl. No. Month Crop Water Requirement

(Mm3)

1. June 1.626
2. July 19.267
3. August 14.021

4. September 10.501
5. October 1.117

6. November 5.290

7. December 5.851
8. January 6.737
9. February 6.956

10. March 1.950

11. April 1.375

12. May 0.450

Total 75.141

It is planned to utilize 75.141 Mm3 of water annually for irrigation to stabilise the
existing command area of 9850 ha under the link canal project in Krishnagiri and Vellore
districts of Tamil Nadu.

8.7 Water Planning

8.7.1 Availability of Surface Water
Ponnaiyar River available at Krishnagiri dam to the proposed link canal which
off takes from the existing Nedungal Anicut. Therefore, the link canal is a flood-flow canal
and is designed based on quantum of spills from Krishnagiri dam.

The observed monthly spill flood discharges at Krishnagiri dam site for the period
from 1958-59 to 2009-10 have been collected from the project authorities. From this, the
quantum of average monsoon flood spill at Krishnagiri Dam Site has been assessed to be

135
157 Mm3. It is proposed to release 86 Mm3 (out of 157 Mm3) of spill flood waters from
Krishnagiri dam to Nedungal Anicut for diverting the same in to proposed Ponnaiyar
(Nedungal) - Palar link canal to feed enroute tanks for irrigation in Krishnagiri and Vellore
districts and to recharge ground water in Vellore district for stabilising the part of the
existing ayacut presently being irrigated under open wells and bore wells.

8.7.2 Live Storage

The existing Krishnagiri dam across Ponnaiyar river is proposed to be use as
the storage structure and Nedungal Anicut as a diversion structure, to release water in to
link canal. The live storage at FRL of the Krishnagiri dam is 47.184 Mm3 and the design flood
is 4234 cumec.

8.7.3 Quality of Water

Public Works Department (PWD), Govt. of Tamil Nadu collects the Water
samples of Krishnagiri Dam during all the months from different points such as from
reservoir, seepage water from drainage galleries, toe-drain of earthen dam section, as per
the prescribed procedure, for analysis at Soil Mechanics and Research Division, WRO, PWD,
Chennai, for both chemical and physio-chemical analysis for ascertaining the water quality
status. The laboratory test results of the water samples of Krishnagiri reservoir from 2009 to
2013 have been collected. Details are given in Chapter-4 ‘Surveys & Investigations’
under para 4.6.7.

As per the test results of water samples from Krishnagiri reservoir, the
conductivity of water is less than 1000 micro mhos/cm, which indicates that the water is
‘Excellent to Good-Class-1’ for irrigation purpose. The pH value is within the limits of 6.5 to
8.5 which indicate that the water is fit for irrigation use. As the levels of total dissolved salts
in various samples collected are well below the permissible limits of less than 700 ppm, the
same is ‘Excellent to Good-Class-1’ for irrigation. The range of Chlorides in the water is less
than 175 ppm indicates as ‘Excellent to Good-Class-1’ for irrigation. The other parameters
such as Carbonate/Bi-carbonate alkalinity, total hardness, Calcium/Magnesium/including
Sulphates are within the limits for irrigation purpose. Hence, the divertable water proposed
through the link canal is suitable for irrigation purpose.

8.7.4 Efficiency of Canal and Distribution System

The link project is intended mainly for recharging the ground water potential
only. No direct irrigation under the link canal system is involved. The gross irrigation water

136
requirement for different crops, as per suggested cropping pattern has been worked out
considering an irrigation efficiency of 65% for all crops under tank irrigation and 81% for all
crops through Groundwater.

8.7.5 Enroute Losses

The loss of water by seepage from unlined canals in India generally varies
from 0.3 to 7.0 cumec per million sq.m of wetted area depending on the permeability of soil
through which the canal passes, location of water table, distance of drainage, bed width,
side slope and water depth of the canal. In addition, velocity of flow, soil and water
temperature, atmospheric pressure and stratification of underlying soil also affect the
seepage rate. In the present study, these losses are computed considering 2.50 cumec per
million sq.m of wetted area. This works out to about 6.977 Mm3.

8.7.6 Drinking Water Requirement

Out of 86 Mm3 of proposed diversion, an allocation of about 75.141 Mm3 for
irrigation use, 6.977 Mm3 for transmission losses and the balance 3.882 Mm3 of water is
planned for drinking water supply to enroute villages in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts lying
right side of the link canal for 1.52 lakh human population. The per capita daily water
requirement for rural population as 70 litres is considered as per the norms prescribed by
the Union Ministry of Works and Housing in its manual “Water Supply and Treatment”.

8.7.7 Canal Capacity

Based on the monthly spill flood discharges at Krishnagiri reservoir project
during the monsoon season (October, November and December) for the period from 1979
to 2009 (31 years), the maximum canal capacity at the canal head has been fixed as 62
cumec. The Canal section is designed for the above peak discharge increased by a capacity
factor of 1.1. Thus, the designed discharge of the link canal at head, works out to 68 cumec.
The canal has been designed as an unlined canal of trapezoidal cross-section.

8.8 Command Area Drainage

8.8.1 Review of Existing Drainage System
Presently, there is no canal irrigation in the proposed command area. Two
major rivers (Ars) namely Mattur Ar and Bargur Ar and some small streams flow in the
vicinity of the link project area. The command area proposed under the link project is being
irrigated by ground water through open wells and bore wells and some area under rain fed
cultivation with existing good surface/sub surface drainage system. Also, the entire area is

137
under acute shortage of rainfall/ground water with drought prone condition and the
proposed scheme is intended for recharging the ground water potential. Therefore, no water
logging problem of serious nature is anticipated in the proposed command.

8.8.2 Drainage System in the Proposed Command Area

There are many tanks (Eris) constructed on streams in series and well
connected together in the command area with regulating structures having good drainage
facility. The link canal is proposed to feed the existing enroute tanks which have already
been planned with well drainage system. Hence, by observing the existing scenario/ general
condition and topography of the command, separate surface/sub-surface drainage proposals
are not considered for the project areas.

8.9 Water Courses/ Field Channels

The link project is proposed to recharge the ground water potential to
stabilise the existing command area. It is proposed to let out the link canal water to the
existing system tanks in the vicinity, enroute link canal by providing outlets. The system
tanks are the series of existing tanks connected by intermittent supply/feeder channels,
being maintained by PWD, WRD, Govt. of Tamil Nadu and these are used as water courses.
These tanks are utilised to harvest the rainfall for irrigation. Hence, no separate water
courses/ field channels are planned since the existing water distribution system is adequate.
Therefore, no sample command area survey has been taken up for cost-estimate of water
distribution system.

8.10 Command Area

8.10.1 Command Area Details
The Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar link project is proposed to divert the flood
water from the Ponnaiyar river to recharge the sub-surface flow/improve the ground water
potential, thereby stabilising the existing ayacut being irrigated under open wells, tube
wells/bore wells in water-short drought-prone Krishnagiri and Vellore districts by feeding
existing system tanks. Hence, no new command area is proposed under the link project.

The command area planned for stabilization lies in 2 talukas of Krishnagiri district
and 2 talukas of Vellore district in Tamil Nadu. The total CCA covered under the link canal is
9850 ha. Further details are given in the following paragraphs.
(a) Location

138
Location of enroute command area in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts
The enroute command area of Ponnaiyar (Nedungal)-Palar link project to an
extent of 1900 ha is falls in Krishnagiri and Pochampalli talukas of Krishnagiri district and
Tirupattur taluka of Vellore district in Tamil Nadu. The district/tahsil-wise break-up of the
enroute command area is given in Table-8.10.
Table-8.10
District/Tahsil-wise Details of Enroute Command Area
CCA: 1900 ha

Sl. State/District/Tahsil Area of the CCA falling % of total

No. taluka in the taluka enroute CCA
(ha) (ha) (ha)

Tamil Nadu
A. Krishnagiri district
1. Krishnagiri 124896 943 49.63
2. Pochampalli 41854 313 16.47
Sub-total 1256 66.10
B. Vellore district
1. Tirupattur 60754 644 33.90
Sub-total 644 33.90
Total 1900 100

The taluka-wise command area enroute the link canal in Krishnagiri and
Vellore districts is worked out based on the particulars supplied by the Ponnaiyar Basin
Division, Dharmapuri and Upper Palar Basin Division, Vellore, PWD, WRD, Govt. of Tamil
Nadu. Out of the tanks lying on the right side of the link canal in Pochampalli and Tirupattur
talukas, the system tanks which are closer to the link canal were selected to supply the
water by gravity from the link canal.

For Krishnagiri taluka, it is planned to release water into Bargur River at RD

29.581 km by providing a suitable canal escape/outlet, to feed the canal system of the
existing weir downstream of the canal crossing across the Bargur River. The details of
enroute tanks to be benefitted with the ayacut particulars in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts
are given in Annexure - 8.8. The map showing the command area proposed for
stabilization is shown in Plate-8.3.

139
Location of Tail-end Command area in Vaniyambadi Taluka of Vellore District in
Palar Basin

The link project envisages diversion of 86 Mm3 flood waters from Ponnaiyar
river to Palar river (through Kal Ar - a tributary of Palar). Total 9850 ha area is proposed to
be benefited by the project of which 7950 ha is located in drought-prone Vaniyambadi
taluka of Vellore district in Palar basin.

Identification of Ground Water Recharge Areas and Villages Benefited

The Ground water Division, Public Works Department, Water Resources
Organisation (WRO), Vellore, Govt. of Tamil Nadu has studied the possible ground water
potential recharge zones in Vaniyambadi and Tirupattur talukas of Vellore district in the
vicinity of rivers Kal Ar and Palar. As per the Brief Note of the study the Ground water
Division, PWD identified the areas having possibilities for ground water recharge on either
side of the rivers Kal Ar and Palar in Vaniyambadi and Tirupattur talukas of Vellore district.
The water to be diverted through the link canal may percolate in the alluvial track available
on both sides of the river. The Public Works Department (PWD), Govt. of Tamil Nadu will
take up suitable measures for improving the ground water in the areas located on both
sides of Kal Ar and Palar rivers by constructing Check Dams, recharge wells and artificial
storage tanks etc,. The list of villages to be benefitted by ground water recharge by the link
canal project is given in Table-8.11.

Table-8.11
Villages with Recharge Potential Possibility in Vellore District
A. Vaniyambadi taluka
1 Govindapuram 12 Vinnamangalam
2 Periyapet 13 Alankuppam
3 Vaniyambadi town 14 Veerankuppam
4 Amburpettai 15 Palayasolur
5 Mettupalayam 16 Kumaramangalam
6 Sammandhikuppam 17 Sanur
7 Girisamudram 18 Kammakrishnapalli
8 Chengilikuppam 19 Davalapuram
9 Bapanapalli 20 Labbamankuppam
10 Minnur 21 Ambur town
11 Vadakkarai

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 [Link] taluka
1 Elalapatti 8 Periyamottur
2 Panandakuppam 9 Kittandakuppam
3 Atturkuppam 10 Chinnamottur
4 Ellarapatti 11 Pudur-(river Kal Ar)
5 Mottur 12 Modhukuttai
6 Periyakammiyampatti 13 Nekkundi
7 Kaveripatti

Source: Report from Ground water Division, PWD, Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

Based on the field resistivity data obtained during the Geophysical

investigations by NGRI, Hyderabad along the proposed Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar link
canal the Ground water Division, Public Works Department, WRO, Vellore, Govt. of Tamil
Nadu has predicted the intensity of ground water recharge along the link canal. The details
are listed in Table-8.12. The report prepared by the Ground water Division, PWD, on
‘Identification of ground water recharge areas and recharge possibilities’ is furnished in
Annexure-8.9.
Table-8.12
Recharge Possibilities along the Reaches of Link Canal

Sl. Reach (km) Recharge Possibilities ( RD in km)

No. From To
1. RD from 0.000 to 5.000 0.000 0.800 Good

0.800 1.300 Poor

1.300 2.400 Good

2.400 3.000 Poor

3.000 4.300 Good

4.300 5.000 Poor

2. RD from 5.500 to 11.000 5.500 6.200 Medium

6.200 7.400 Poor

7.400 9.300 Good

9.300 10.200 Medium

10.200 11.000 Good

141
 Sl. Reach (km) Recharge Possibilities ( RD in km)
No. From To
3. RD from 11.500 to 16.500 11.500 13.700 Very Good

13.700 14.300 Medium

14.300 15.800 Poor

15.800 16.200 Good

16.200 16.500 Poor

4. RD from 24.000 to 28.500 24.000 28.200 Very Good

28.200 28.500 Poor

5. RD from 29.130 to 34.000 29.000 31.300 Good

31.300 32.200 Poor

32.200 34.000 Very Good

6. RD from 34.500 to 39.500 34.500 36.300 Good

36.300 37.700 Poor

37.700 38.500 Very Good

38.500 39.500 Good

7. RD from 40.000 to 45.000 40.000 40.800 Very Good

40.800 41.300 Poor

41.300 42.500 Good

42.500 44.300 Very Good

44.300 44.700 Poor

44.700 45.000 Good

8. RD from 45.500 to 50.500 45.500 50.500 Very Good

9. RD from 51.000 to 54.000 51.000 54.000 Very Good

Source: Report on Geophysical Investigation by NGRI, Hyderabad and

Report from Ground water Division, PWD, Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

(b) Classification of Land (Forest, Grass Land, Cultivated Land,

Cultivated Fallow, Culturable Waste, Barren)
The command area under the link canal lies in Krishnagiri and Pochampalli
talukas of Krishnagiri district and Tirupattur and Vaniyambadi talukas of Vellore district. Out

142
of a total culturable command area of 9850 ha proposed under the link project about 1900
ha existing area is proposed to be stabilised enroute the link canal in Krishnagiri and
Pochampalli talukas of Krishnagiri district and Tirupattur taluka of Vellore district by feeding
enroute existing system tanks. The land use particulars of Krishnagiri, Pochampalli and
Tirupattur talukas for the year 2013-14 are furnished in Table-8.13.

Table-8.13
Land Use Particulars of Enroute Command Area for the Year 2013-14
Unit : ha
Krishnagiri District Vellore
District
Category Krishnagiri Pochampalli Tirupattur
Taluka Taluka Taluka
Forest 50077 9087 13510

Barren land 6480 427 858

Land put to non-agricultural uses 9937 4355 6372

Permanent pastures and other 1835 122 164

grazing lands

Sub-total 68329 13991 20904

Land under misc. trees and crops 442 84 88

Culturable waste 858 102 183

Current fallows 3976 1026 10545

Other fallows 4811 853 3667

Net area sown 46480 25798 25367

Sub-total 56567 27863 39850

Geographical area 124896 41854 60754

Source: G-Return - Department of Economics and Statistics, Krishnagiri,

Pochampalli and Tirupattur talukas, Govt. of Tamil Nadu.
Out of a total culturable command area of 9850 ha proposed under the link
project, tail end command area to an extent of 7950 ha falls in Vaniyambadi taluka of
Vellore district. The land use particulars of Vaniyambadi taluka for the year 2013-14 are
furnished in Table-8.14.

143
 Table-8.14
Land Use Particulars of Tail-end Command for the Year 2013-14
Unit: ha
Category Area

Forest 30633

Barren land 2069

Land put to non-agricultural uses 3444

Permanent pastures and other grazing lands 505

Sub-total 36651

Land under misc. trees and crops 156

Culturable waste 551

Current fallows 4165

Other fallows 935

Net area sown 18668

Sub-total 24475

Geographical area 61126

Source: G-Return - Department of Economics and Statistics, Vaniyambadi taluka,

Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

The Land use and Land cover details of the Ponnaiyar and Palar basins are shown in
Figs. 8.4 and 8.5 respectively. The same are shown in Plates – 8.4 and 8.5 respectively.

144
145
146
(c) Size of Land Holdings
The details on operational land holdings of Krishnagiri and Vellore districts
during the year 2010-11 are given in Tables-8.15 and 8.16 respectively.

Table-8.15
Details on Operational Land Holdings of Krishnagiri District during 2010-11
Size of holdings No. of land holdings Area held by each category
(ha)
% of total
Number Area (ha) % of total area
holdings
0-1 213023 75.61 85164 37.76
1-2 45970 16.32 64042 28.24
2-5 20212 7.17 57765 25.47
5-10 2189 0.78 14204 6.26
10 and above 339 0.12 5592 2.47
Total 281733 100.0 226767 100.0

Source: Agricultural census, 2010-11, Krishnagiri district, Tamil Nadu State.

Table 8.16
Details on Operational Land Holdings of Vellore District during 2010-11
Size of holdings No. of land holdings Area held by each category
(ha)
% of total
Number Area (ha) % of total area
holdings
0-1 313666 81.45 113659 45.65
1-2 51257 13.31 70612 28.36
2-5 18357 4.77 51452 20.67
5-10 1631 0.42 10519 4.23
10 and above 174 0.05 2711 1.09
Total 385085 100.0 248953 100.0

Source: Agricultural census, 2010-11, Vellore district, Tamil Nadu State.

8.10.2 Climate of Command Area

Various climatological parameters in the proposed command area under the
link canal are discussed in the following paras.

147
a) Rainfall: The annual normal rainfall of Krishnagiri area as per Dharmapuri IMD
observatory is 802 mm and during the monsoon the normal rainfall is 637 mm. During
monsoon maximum rainfall occurs in the month of September and minimum rainfall in the
month of December. The mean annual rainfall of Krishnagiri station which is very close to
the head works of the link project is 882 mm, of which 706 mm is during monsoon. The
average monthly maximum and minimum rainfall of Krishnagiri station are 183 mm and 29
mm during September and December respectively.

The annual normal rainfall of Vellore district as per Vellore IMD observatory is
about 1023 mm and during monsoon it is about 893 mm. The Vellore region experiences an
average annual rainfall of 795 mm. The mean annual rainfall of Vaniyambadi station where
maximum command area is identified is about 800 mm, of which monsoon rainfall is 668
mm. The average monthly maximum and minimum rainfall at Vaniyambadi are 157 mm and
33 mm during September and December respectively. The mean annual rainfall of Tirupattur
which is located closely to the outfall point of the link project is about 878 mm, of which 724
mm is during monsoon. The average monthly maximum and minimum rainfall are 165 mm
and 34 mm during September and December respectively.

b) Temperature: The climate of Krishnagiri district is comparatively more pleasant

than that of the surrounding districts. Summer season prevails in April and May months and
from January to March, it is dry season. During summer season, the normal monthly
maximum temperature is about 37.1o C in April and the normal monthly minimum
temperature is about 17.2o C in January. The mean annual maximum and minimum
temperatures observed during 1961-1990 are 32.5o C and 21.2o C respectively.

Vellore district has tropical climate. The highest temperature has been
recorded during May and June. The mean daily maximum and minimum temperature is
36.8o C and 18.2o C. Vaniyambadi is hot in summer with highest day temperature in the
range of 31 oC to 41 oC.

As per the IMD observatory of Vellore the normal monthly maximum

temperature is about 38.9o C in May and the daily minimum temperature is about 18.1o C
in January. The mean annual maximum and minimum temperature observed during 1961-
1990 is 33.7o C and 22.6o C respectively.

148
c) Relative Humidity: In Krishnagiri district as per the Dharmapuri IMD observatory
the maximum relative humidity of about 78% occurs during December and minimum relative
humidity of about 31% occurs during March. In Vellore district as per the Vellore IMD
observatory the relative humidity ranges from 37% to 86%. It maintains maximum of about
86% during December and minimum of about 37% during March.

d) Cloud Cover: As per the observations during the period 1961-1990 at Dharmapuri
IMD observatory the maximum cloud cover of 6.6 Oktas has been observed in the month of
July and a minimum of 1.50 Oktas in the month of March. The mean annual maximum and
minimum cloud cover observed during the above period is 4.7 and 3.7 Oktas respectively.

As per the observations during the period 1961-1990 at Vellore IMD

observatory the maximum cloud cover of 6.9 Oktas is observed in the month of July and a
minimum of 2.1 Oktas in the month of March. The mean annual maximum and minimum
cloud cover observed during the above period is 5.0 and 4.2 Oktas respectively.

e) Wind Speed: As per the observations during the period 1961-1990 at Dharmapuri
IMD observatory the maximum and minimum normal wind speed is 10.3 kmph and 4.6
kmph during the months of June and October respectively. The mean annual wind speed
observed during the above period is 6.7 kmph.

As per the observations during the period 1961-1990 at Vellore IMD

observatory the maximum and minimum normal wind speed is 10.4 kmph and 5.5 kmph
during the months of June and October respectively. The mean annual wind speed observed
during the above period is 7.7 kmph.

f) Evaporation: The monthly mean potential evapo-transpiration (ETo) in the

command area as per Vellore IMD observatory varies from 18.4 cm to 9.98 cm and the
average annual potential evapo-transpiration is about 168.56 cm.

The meteorological data observed at Dharmapuri and Vellore IMD

observatories are given in Annexures-8.1 and 8.2 respectively.

8.10.3 Irrigation
a) Present Source of Irrigation in the Command
The present source of irrigation in the proposed command area is primarily of
tube wells/bore wells and dug wells / open wells and secondary one is tanks (Eris) of large

149
and small size which collect the water during rainy season. There are no reservoirs or canals
exist for irrigation in the proposed command area. Since the command area is mainly of
rainfed, the maximum irrigation is being done by ground water.

Out of a total culturable command area of 9850 ha proposed to be stablised under

the link project, 1900 ha is proposed to stabilise in the existing irrigated areas enroute the
link canal in Krishnagiri and Pochampalli talukas of Krishnagiri district and Tirupattur taluka
of Vellore district. Remaining 7950 ha area falls in Vaniyambadi taluka of Vellore district at
tail-end of link canal. Source-wise irrigation particulars of the command area for the year
2013-14 are represented in Table - 8.1 under para 8.1.

b) Methods of Irrigation Followed

At present, the conventional methods of applying water through minor
irrigation channels are being followed in the proposed command areas. There is no flow/lift
irrigation in the proposed command area except using electrical/diesel pump sets to lift
ground water from dug wells/open wells, tube wells /bore wells.

c) Status of Land Development for Irrigated Area

Though there is no canal irrigation system in the proposed command area,
the condition of existing tanks (Eris) and other minor channels being maintained by Minor
Irrigation Department, PWD, Govt. of Tamil Nadu is generally satisfactory. The link canal
project envisages stabilisation of the existing ayacut by recharging the ground water
potential and no new command area is proposed to be brought under irrigation. Hence,
land development in the command area is not included in the present project proposals.

(i) Conditions of Channels

The command areas in the vicinity of the link canal mainly depend on rainfall,
open wells and bore wells for irrigation. Many tanks (Eris) are constructed in series on
various existing natural streams/nallas called ‘system tanks’ in the command area, with inlet
and outlet regulator structures. The rain water so harvested in these tanks will be supplied
for irrigation to surrounding fields/ayacut by a network of field channels from the outlet
structures of the tanks. The system tanks and the field channels are being maintained well
by the PWD, WRD, Govt. of Tamil Nadu. The farmers participate actively in proper
maintenance of the field channels. The Ponnaiyar (Nedungal)-Palar link is proposed to feed
the existing system tanks enroute the link canal which have already been planned with good
drainage system.

150
(ii) Longitudinal Slopes in the Field
The terrain is very undulating with rocky outcrops and bushes etc. The
existing command area is already prepared by leveling the fields into many blocks/chalks
accordingly with suitable drainage slope.

(iii) Status of Field Channels/Drains

The field channels existing in the command area as well as system of many
streams/nallas of Ponnaiyar river flowing in the vicinity of the project are sufficient which are
being maintained by PWD, WRD, Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

(d) Assured Field Application Efficiency

The gross irrigation water requirement for different crops as per the
suggested cropping pattern has been worked out considering an irrigation efficiency of 65%
for paddy and 55% for other crops under Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar intra-state link canal
as a medium project.

(e) Record of Water Logging, Salinity and Flooding

The existing command area in the vicinity of the project has been categorized
by CGWB as over exploited for future ground water development, since the exploitation of
ground water is almost twice the annual replenishable ground water. The Palar basin to
which the link canal is proposed the diversion of water from Ponnaiyar river, is an acute
drought-prone zone. There is no previous record of occurrence of water logging, salinity and
flooding related problems in the vicinity of the proposed link project. Even with the diversion
of water through the proposed link canal water-logging, salinity and flooding problems of
serious nature are not anticipated in the command area.

8.10.4 Socio-Economic Aspects

(a) Population and Major Occupations
The command area under the link project spreads over two talukas of
Krishnagiri district and two talukas in Vellore district with maximum area lying in
Vaniyambadi taluka of Vellore district itself. The population is predominantly rural as per the
2011 census.

According to 2011 census Krishnagiri district had a population of 1879809,

out of which a total of 217323 were under the age of six. Scheduled castes and scheduled
tribes accounted for 14.22% and 1.19% of the population respectively. The district had a

151
total of 448053 households. Hinduism is the major religion followed by Islam and
Christianity.

According to 2011 census Vellore district had a population of 3936331 out of

which a total of 432550 were under the age of six. Scheduled castes and scheduled tribes
accounted for 21.85 % and 1.85% of the population respectively. The district had a total of
929281 households.

There are total 877779 workers in Krishnagiri district and 1689330 workers in
Vellore district. The occupational distribution of the population for Krishnagiri and Vellore
districts is given in Table 8.17.

Table 8.17
District-wise Occupational Distribution of Main and Marginal Workers
Sl. Krishnagiri District Vellore District
No. Occupation
Main Marginal Main Marginal
1 Cultivators 218600 17438 153211 21897
2 Agricultural labourers 197369 65959 254999 136956
3 Household workers 15237 6681 106906 29509
4 Other workers 310795 45700 845069 140783
Sub total 742001 135778 1360185 329145

Total 877779 1689330

Source: Census of India, 2011

(b) Classification of Farmers

Marginal farmers account for more than 75% of total farmers in the vicinity of
the command area of the link project. The details are furnished at para 8.10.1 c, above.

The socio-economic aspects based on the secondary data of Krishnagiri and

Vellore districts are furnished in Table 8.18.

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 Table 8.18
District-wise Socio-Economic Aspects
Sl. Description Krishnagiri Vellore
No. District District
1 Population in District 1879809 3936331
2 Population density per km2 366 650
3 Sex ratio (females to male for 958 997
1000 male)
4 Landholdings Maximum number of holdings belongs to
marginal farmers owning less than 0.50 ha
5 Literacy rate 63.20% 79.65%
6 Educational institutions
1305 2854
(Primary school to Universities)
7 No. of Cultivators 236038 175108
8 No. of Agricultural labourers 263328 391955

Source: Census of India, 2011

(c) Income Sources

Most of the people in the command area of the proposed link project depend
on agriculture. The area is mainly rural and the land holdings are small / marginal. Among
the population engaged in agriculture nearly 60% are agricultural labours. From the
classification of farmers based on the land holdings, the marginal farmers comprise more
than 75% of total farmers, having maximum number of land holdings. Therefore, the source
of income in the command area is mainly agriculture and related activities.

Though, the labourers are being engaged in granite industries with quarries
and processing units, mango related food processing units, animal husbandry and fisheries,
the introduction of irrigation by way of stablisation of existing irrigated area in the proposed
command area may boost the house hold income.

8.10.5 Infrastructural Facilities

a) Roads and Railways
The command area in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts is well connected by
major roads and railway net work. The Krishnagiri district headquarters is at a distance of
about 14 km from the head works (Nedungal Anicut) of the link project and about 7 km

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from Krishnagiri dam. Krishnagiri district is connected by Prime Minister’s Golden
Quadrilateral Project.

Jolarpet, an important railway junction is at a distance of about 5 km from

the outfall of the link project near Natrampalli village. Tirupattur taluka Headquarters is
located at a distance of about 12 km from the outfall point. Also, the entire command area
is well connected by a developed road network. All the district highways are linked with
almost all the towns and villages in the command area.

The details of important highways and railway network in the vicinity of the
link project are given below.

Highways (Passing through Krishnagiri and Vellore Districts)

1. Kanniyakumari-Varanasi NH 7
2. Krishnagiri-Ranipet NH 46
3. Pondicherry-Krishnagiri NH 66
4. Krishnagiri-Madanapalli NH 219

Railways
1. Salem-Bangalore main line (Southern Railway)
2. Salem-Chennai main line (Southern Railway)
3. Hyderabad-Chennai (via) Jolarpet main line (Southern Railway)

b) Marketing Facilities
The command area comprises of four talukas of two districts where the
agricultural activities are the predominant occupation of the people. Most of the population
belongs to lower income group. The land holdings are small in the entire command. These
places are developed with enough marketing facilities to sell agricultural food and non-food
produce. Besides this, good number of outlets for the supply of the agricultural inputs like
seeds, fertilizers and pesticides to the farmers to meet their requirements, already exists in
the command area.

Good marketing facilities are available at Krishnagiri town (District

Headquarters), Pochampalli, Tirupattur and Vaniyambadi towns (taluka Headquarters). The
facilities are available at Kaveripatnam, Sandur, Mattur, Natrampalli and Jolarpet also. All the
above places are located within reasonable distance in the vicinity of the link command area

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with good transportation facilities. Co-operative societies are also available to take care of
marketing of various agricultural as well as household goods.

c) Agro Industries
The project area is primarily agrarian with majority of its population involved
in agriculture, having excellent agri-business. However, no major agro based industries are
located in the area falling in the command except mango based juice/pulp factories, cottage
industries related to coir, sericulture based on mulberry cultivation in the command area,
giving scope for employment opportunity in the command area besides granite processing
units. However, some oil mills and flour mills in the command area cater to the needs of
common people.

d) Banks/Credit Societies etc.

Number of financial institutions are located in and around the command area
since Krishnagiri and Vellore districts are well developed with several major industrial
establishments such as Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited – Boiler Auxiliaries Plant (BHEL-
B.A.P), Small Industries Development Corporation (SIDCO), Small Industries Promotion
Corporation (SIPCOT) etc, and Leather based industries. Many nationalized banks, foreign
banks, regional rural banks and gramin banks have several braches in the vicinity of the
command area to offer financial services to the farmers for meeting their agricultural
expenses, purchase of livestock, acquisition of new lands/farm-houses, improvement of land
and drainage and other necessities etc.

8.11 Topography and Soils

8.11.1 Topography
Isolated hill tops and some hills in continuous small stretches with valleys,
small rivers/streams and many nallahs dominate the area. At some places granite mining is
found in the vicinity of command area. Ponnaiyar and Palar rivers are two major rivers
draining in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts, where the command area is proposed to be
stabilized under the link canal.

8.11.2 Land Slopes

Green valleys, hills and hillocks are located in the region. The flat lands are
irrigated. However, the slopes of the land in the command area are not even. The existing
command area is leveled into small field chalks/blocks and is being maintained by marginal

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and small land holders. The slope among the field chalks/ blocks is not uniform, since the
land is very undulating.

8.11.3 Soils
Soil characteristics of a terrain are one of the important aspects since they
play a major role in irrigation and agriculture. No separate soil surveys has been conducted
in the command area. Based on the Hydro-geological Atlas of Tamil Nadu brought out by
Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) the soils in the command area are grouped mainly as –
Red Sandy clay loam, Brown clay loam, Recent/old alluvial soils and Rock outcrops with
loamy sand soils.

Distribution of soils in the command area covering in Ponnaiyar and Palar basins is
shown in Figs-8.1 and 8.2 respectively.

8.12 Drainage –Density of Natural Drainage

The entire command area is drained by major tributaries like Bargur and
Mottur and many streams and nallahs of Ponnaiyar river. The entire enroute command area
in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts consists of densely located tanks (Eris)/Check dams
constructed on natural streams. At tail-end command in Vaniyambadi taluka the Palar and
its major tributaries viz., Godd Ar/Kal Ar, Cheyyar are main source of natural drainage.
Almost all the above streams in the command area are ephemeral in nature and are
structurally controlled, but the river Palar is dry for major part of the year.

The density of natural drainage in the proposed command area is seen to be

adequate.

8.13 Agriculture
8.13.1 Present Land Use
Land use pattern is expected to be changed due to the developmental
activities of this project. The two districts of Krishnagiri and Vellore where the command
area is proposed to be stabilized under the link proposal have an excellent scope for agri-
business. Regional Agricultural Research Center of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University
function in these districts efficiently to help the farmers to develop and adopt modern
techniques of cultivation and also for developing hybrid seeds by research which yields more
tonnage and good quality. The agricultural crops in the command area proposed are paddy,
ragi, jowar, Bajra, groundnut, pulses, sugarcane, tamarind etc.

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8.13.2 Cropping Pattern Followed
The existing cropping pattern being followed in Vaniyambadi taluka of Vellore
district during the year 2013-14 where 7950 ha, of ayacut out of a total ayacut of 9850 ha is
proposed for stabilization under the link project is given in Table-8.5.

Further, the crop area details in Krishnagiri, Pochampalli and Tirupattur blocks
for Khariff and Rabi, both irrigated and un-irrigated scenarios in enroute and tail-end
commands are given in Tables-8.2 to 8.4 under paras [Link] and [Link].

The crop-wise yield rates for the crops proposed under the link canal
command area under pre-project scenario in Krishnagiri and Vellore districts based on the
area and production of crops as per Season and Crop Report of Tamil Nadu, 2011-12 are
given in Table-8.19.
Table- 8.19
Crop-wise Yield Rates under Pre-Project Scenario
(Un Irrigated Condition)
Productivity : T/ha
Sl. No. Name of Crop Krishnagiri District Vellore District
1. Paddy 4.19 3.62
2. Ragi 1.99 1.34
3. Jowar 2.81 0.85
4. Bajra 1.38 1.27
5. Groundnut 1.75 1.65
6. Cotton 0.99 0.99
7. Pulses 0.38 0.47
8. Maize 0.47 3.26
9. Sugarcane 89.00 76.00

Source: Season and Crop Report of Tamil Nadu, 2011-12 (Un-irrigated condition)

8.13.3 Agriculture Practices Adopted

a) Use of Implements and Seeds
The use of wooden /iron ploughs with bullock tractor power for ploughing
land is common in the area of proposed command. The use of traditional implements is also
very common among majority of the farmers. The latest and high quality breeds of seeds
are being used by the farmers in the command area.

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b) Use of Fertilizers, Insecticides, Pesticides etc.,
Some farmers are using the fertilizers such as nitrogenous, phosphoric,
potassium, urea and pesticides of dust/liquid nature for increasing the crop yield.

c) Extension Services
Occasional extension services are provided by the district level State
Agriculture Departments to educate the farmers about the use of improved and modern
agriculture technology and cultivation of high value crops viz., paddy groundnut, sunflower,
mango, coconut, chilies, cotton, soya bean etc,. But due to various reasons including
inadequate financial resources the extension services are yet to become popular among the
farmers in the proposed command area.

8.13.4 Farmers Attitude towards Improved Agricultural Practices

and Willingness for Payment of Water Rates to Meet O&M Expenses

There is no direct irrigation under the proposed canal. The scheme is for
improving the ground water potential in the vicinity of the project. However, the farmers
attitude towards improved agricultural practices is positive. But, presently due to non
availability of water even from the existing tanks, the farmers find it difficult to carryout
cultivation beneficially in the command area.

8.13.5 Preparedness by State Irrigation /Agriculture Departments/

WUAs/Co-operatives to Adopt Improved Farming System
The WRD, PWD, Govt. of Tamil Nadu maintains many minor irrigation tanks
being utilized for collecting the rainwater during monsoon season for further utilization for
cultivation. CGWB is conducting the Mass Awareness Campaign (MAP) and Water
Management Training Programme (WMTP) at different prominent places in Krishnagiri and
Vellore districts.

Regional Agricultural Research Centre of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University

functions efficiently at Pariyur in Kaveripatnam Union near Krishnagiri district head quarters.
This centre helps the farmers to develop and adopt modern techniques of cultivation. The
center has developed hybrid seeds by research which yields more tonnage and good quality.
Also, Mass Awareness Programmes and Water Management Trainings are being organized
by State Agriculture Departments, from time to time at different stations in Krishnagiri and
Vellore districts.

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8.14 Problems in the Command Area
8.14.1 Physical Problems (Including Hazards)
a) Land Slopes: The terrain is very undulating. Land holdings are small and land
slope will not affect the command. However, the command area will be benefited by
recharging the ground water.
b) Soil Depth: To suit the type of soil and its depth, suitable cropping measures are
taken.
c) Salinity/Alkalinity: The ground water is the source of irrigation in the proposed
command area. Presence of chemical constituents like Fe, F & N in ground water is found to
be in excess of the permissible limits. It is observed that the ground water in the phreatic
zone may cause high to very high hazard and medium to very high alkali hazard when used
for irrigation. The pollution from tanneries causes irrevocable deterioration of quality of
ground water. Therefore, replenishing the ground water using the diverted water from the
link project will enhance the ground water table and improves the quality of water to some
extent.
d) Soil Erosion: Soil erosion is not expected to take place, as the lands under
irrigation are prepared leveled with gentle slopes, for each block/chalk.
e) Water-Logging: Since the ground water table is very low in the command area,
no water-logging problem of serious nature is anticipated.
f) Drainage: Adequate natural drainage system is ensured in the command area in
the form of many natural streams and nallas.

8.14.2 Financial Problems

a) Socio-Economic Conditions
The farmers are mainly engaged in the field of agriculture. Most of the
population in the vicinity of the project consists of rural population. 91% of land holdings
are in marginal and small categories. Due to non-availability of canal irrigation facilities in
the existing command area, the farmers mainly depend upon rainfall and ground water for
irrigation. Majority of population depends on agriculture and other associated services. It is
observed that the present level of household income is very low. Therefore, stabilising the
irrigation in the command area with the implementation of the link canal project is
absolutely necessary to increase the crop-production/crop yield and consequently the
household income. In the present scenario, both the central and state Government policy is
to achieve self sufficiency in food production by giving necessary assistance and guidance to
the farmers so that there would be no financial hurdle for the farmers.

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b) Availability of Improved Implements/Machines and other Inputs
In the proposed command area, presently the farmers being small and
marginal, are doing cultivation using ploughs (wooden/iron), water pumps for irrigation
purpose (worked by oil engines/by electric power, tractors, (Govt./ Private), sugarcane
crushers (worked by power/bullocks) and oil ghanis etc.,

Mechanisation of agriculture is an essential input to the modern agriculture. It

enhances productivity, besides reducing human drudgery and cost of cultivation. Therefore,
improved version of agricultural implements/machines like mini tractors and 90HP 4WD farm
tractors, grain agriculture farm machine seed-cum-ferti Drill machine, M.B ploughs/Disc
ploughs, paddy transplanters and sugarcane cutters etc., improve the productivity in post
project scenario.

c) Credit Facilities
In the vicinity of the project area, there are many banking facilities viz.,
National Co-operative Development Corporation, Urban Co-op Banks/Societies, Agricultural
Co-operative banks, Co-operative agriculture and Rural Development etc., to extend
agricultural services such as agriculture credit, agriculture insurance etc.,

d) Infrastructure Facilities
100% subsidy to small and micro farms on minor irrigation equipment, 4%
vat exemption on agri inputs and farm machines, interest free advances and uninterrupted
supply of fertilizers etc., are some of the facilities extended to the agricultural sector.

e) Department of Agriculture and Soil Conservation Plan for

Agricultural Development
Govt. of Tamil Nadu has taken up the issues such as farm leveling, soil
surveys for introducing suitable cropping pattern at state level. However, in the project
command area, district level soil conservation plans are being implemented under Dept. of
Agriculture of TNAU to conserve the soil by various means of land shaping, compartmental
bunding and terrace support wall etc.,

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8.15 Proposed Cropping Pattern with Justification based on Land
Irrigability Classification, Agro-Climatic Conditions, Developed
Irrigated Cropping Pattern in the Adjoining Projects/Areas etc.,
The proposed cropping pattern in the command area is presented in
Table-8.6 under para 8.5. The cropping pattern proposed in the command of the link canal
has been considered based on the existing cropping pattern being adopted in Vaniyambadi
taluka of Vellore district in order to suit the respective agro-climatic conditions and soil
irrigability. The existing latest cropping pattern in Vellore and Tirupattur talukas during the
year 2013-14 was received from the Joint Director, District Agriculture Office, Department of
Agriculture, Vellore, Govt. of Tamil Nadu and the proposed cropping pattern is designed by
adjusting the crop intensities suitably. Due care has been taken to cover more command
area with expensive water of the link project.

8.16 Land Development Works

The link canal is proposed for recharging the ground water in order to
stabilise the existing command area and hence no land development works are proposed in
the command area. In the command area land leveling/shaping works have been done. The
field channels being maintained by PWD, Govt. of Tamil Nadu, natural field drainage and
well connected Farm roads exist in the command area.

8.17 Ayacut Roads

Suitable provision for bank road along the link canal alignment as well as
CD/CM structures is made, which will then be linked to various existing ayacut roads to
avoid disruption of movement of farm produce and people of the region.

8.18 Benefits
8.18.1 Crop-wise Increase in Yield/ha and total Estimated output
from the Command
The crop-wise yield rates and total produce in pre and post-project scenarios
under the Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) – Palar link project are given in Table-8.20.

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 Table-8.20
Crop-wise yield rates under pre and post-project scenarios of the link canal
Sl. Crops Pre-project Scenario Post-project Scenario
No.
Area Yield/ Total Area Yield/ Total
ha produce ha produce
(ha) (MT) (MT) (ha) (MT) (MT)
I Kharif

1 Paddy 414 3.62 1499 3448 8.2 28274

2 Ragi/Jowar/ Bajra 1359 1.15 1563 591 4.5 2660

3 Groundnut 1576 1.65 2600 788 2.6 2049

4 Cotton 1507 0.99 1492 690 2.1 1449

5 Pulses 1300 0.38 494 591 1.9 1123

6 Maize 188 3.26 613 197 9 1773

II Rabi

7 Paddy 591 3.62 2139 1475 8.2 12095

8 Ragi/ Bajra 620 1.31 812 353 4.5 1589

9 Maize 265 3.26 864 140 9.0 1260

10 Groundnut 109 1.65 180 99 2.6 257

11 Pulses 1418 0.47 666 788 1.9 1497

Perennial
III

12 Sugarcane 503 76 38228 690 89 61410

Total 9850 51150 9850 115436

Source: 1. Crop-wise yield rates for pre-project scenario (Un-irrigated condition in

Vellore district) are considered based on Season and Crop Report of Tamil
Nadu, 2009-10.
2. For post-project scenario, the Crop-wise yield rates are considered as per
the data supplied by the Joint Director of Agriculture, Agricultural
Department, Vellore, Govt. of Tamil Nadu.
3. *Yield rate pertains to Krishnagiri district.

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8.18.2 Estimated Cost of Increased Production
The estimated increased production and the total value of increased produce
due to implementation of Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar link project under post-project
scenario have been assessed in Table-8.21.
Table-8.21
Estimated cost of increased production in post-project scenario under
Ponnaiyar (Nedungal) - Palar link project

Sl. Crops Increase in Rate/MT Total Value of

No. production Produce
(MT) (Rs) (Rs. Lakhs)
I Kharif
1 Paddy 26775 15630 4185
2 Ragi/Jowar/Bajra 1097 14720 161

3 Groundnut -551 52500 -289

4 Cotton -43 38330 -16

5 Pulses 629 57000 359
6 Maize 1160 14500 168
II Rabi
7 Paddy 9956 15630 1556
8 Ragi/ Bajra 777 16500 128

9 Maize 396 14500 57

10 Groundnut 77 52000 40
11 Pulses 831 57000 474

III Perennial
12 Sugarcane 23182 35000 8114
Total 64286 14937
Source: Rates are considered as per [Link] of Directorate of
Marketing and Inspection, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India.

8.18.3 Likely Socio-Economic Impact

Due to implementation of this project, existing irrigation in the command will
be stabilised, resulting in increase of food-grain production and socio - economic condition
of farmers in the region will improve. Agricultural labourers will get more employment
opportunities and more agro based industries in the area will be established. It improves the
ground water table and quality of water. Hence, the standard of living as well as socio-
cultural and economic status will be improved in the region.

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