Financing Operation and Maintenance of Irrigation and Drainage Services in Asia

The World Bank’s policy on cost recovery in irrigation projects some forty years ago was founded on the principles of economic efficiency, income distribution, and public savings. Over this extended period, however, it may be observed that the principles are virtually unchanged, while the terminologies became a little more complicated and refined.

Performance of Irrigation Investments

Countries in the Asia and Pacific region are undergoing relatively rapid transitions from largely agrarian rural societies to increasingly urbanized communities. As Asian Development Bank and other development partners assist countries manage these transitions, rural development investments must adapt to the changing needs of both rural and urban communities.

Forty Years of Irrigation and Drainage System Performance

This paper examines the performance and effectiveness of solutions offered by irrigation and drainage systems in Asia over the last 40 years. It aims to find out if traditional performance indicators are pertinent in the region’s new context and set of challenges. It also looks at the implications if renewed investment in irrigation and drainage systems is to be effective.

Forty Years of Irrigation and Drainage System Performance

This presentation examines the performance and effectiveness of solutions offered by irrigation and drainage systems in Asia over the last 40 years. It aims to find out if traditional performance indicators are pertinent in the region’s new context and set of challenges. It also looks at the implications if renewed investment in irrigation and drainage systems is to be effective.

2nd Asian Irrigation Forum

The Asian Development Bank responded to regional irrigation needs by hosting the first Asian Irrigation Forum in 2012. The forum brought together stakeholders to share knowledge, best practices, and technological advancements; and identified future investment opportunities. However, irrigation in Asia still faces limited resources, outdated system designs, institutional inefficiencies, and weak governance. There is also a need for more intricate understanding of the changing rural economy and for more novel and impactful solutions.