Challenges of irrigation water distribution from the viewpoint of socio‐hydraulic relations*

Abstract Evaluation of the hydraulic performance of irrigation structures should be used in proper planning of water distribution and the removal of social tensions at water user level. There are several hydraulic indicators that could be interpreted based on social realities. In this study, besides determination of water distribution and conveyance indicators of the Behbahan irrigation scheme, social status was investigated in relation to them. Accordingly, adequacy, dependability and equity indicators in this scheme are poor. Meanwhile, 54% of water users are not satisfied with the performance of water delivery. Based on the questionnaires, training about water distribution is the main request by water users. In this research with a different view about the evaluation of irrigation schemes, existing problems were described from the social perspective. The adequacy indicator is in good condition upstream of the network, while in downstream it is about 40%. Although the knowledge and awareness of water users upstream and downstream are almost equal, only 50% of downstream water users have a relative desire to participate in water services (68% for upstream water users) and their satisfaction is within 20% (62% for upstream water users). Finally, evaluation of hydraulic indicators will be completed and will solve more problems, by considering the social roots of the results.