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Why are irrigation canals lined with concrete?
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Irrigation
Specialized irrigation equipment watering crops in a field.
Irrigation canals are lined with concrete primarily to prevent seepage losses, ensuring that water reaches its intended destination efficiently.12
Beyond minimizing water loss, concrete lining provides several operational and structural benefits:
- Erosion Control: It protects the canal structure from erosion hazards.2
- Maintenance: It reduces the need for ongoing maintenance and helps control the growth of weeds.2
- Efficiency: By creating an impervious surface, it ensures a more reliable transport system for water delivery.12
While other materials such as asphalt and plastic film are sometimes used, concrete remains the standard choice for lining main and distribution channels due to its durability and effectiveness in managing water resources.1