Efficient irrigation systems play a pivotal role in maximizing agricultural output and ensuring food security, particularly in rural areas. The study concentrates on assessing budget allocation, operational effectiveness, operation and maintenance practices, and the organizational capabilities of Water User Associations within the distribution system of Koshi Pump Canal System (KPCS), with the aim of exploring measures for improvement. Two distributary systems were selected for the in-depth study. Primary data for the study were collected through questionnaires with farmers; Focus Group Discussions (FGD's) with Water Users Associations (WUA's), Key Informants Interview (KII) with agency professionals. Secondary data were collected through a formal review of appraisal report of KPCS, articles related to canal system. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and operational dynamics surrounding the Koshi Pump Canal System's Distribution System. Through an examination of budgetary allocations, stakeholder roles, water acquisition complexities, and organizational capacities, key insights emerge regarding the system's functionality and efficiency. Findings from the study reveal persistent deficits in budget allocation, stemming from historical analysis, which have posed significant obstacles to the irrigation canal system maintenance and operation. Operational challenges, such as aging infrastructure, inadequate maintenance practices, and water acquisition complexities, further worsen the system's reliability. Additionally, the study highlights the pivotal role of Water User Associations as mediators between government entities and farmers, yet faces constraints due to financial limitations and organizational shortcomings. Despite collaborative efforts to ensure equitable water distribution and conflict resolution following the joint management strategies between the government and the WUA's challenges persist, necessitating enhanced capacity building, proactive conflict resolution mechanism, and improved financial management. The study underscores the urgency of implementing comprehensive planning and stakeholder engagement to address these challenges and enhance the reliability and effectiveness of canal systems. vi The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies that prioritize infrastructure resilience, adequate budgetary allocations, stakeholder's active engagement and proactive maintenance practices to safeguard the pumped canal distribution system's long-term sustainability and effectiveness. Measures to address emergency cases such as canal breaching, floods and droughts as well as pump failures need to be put at place for ensuring proper maintenance protocol well on time.

Keywords

Koshi Pump Canal System, Joint Management, Water User Association, Operation and Maintenance, Irrigation Service Fee, Nepal

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