Question

Arrange the following parts of a canal system in the correct sequence :
A. Head works
B. Distributary
C. Branch canal
D. Minor
E. Main canal
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

• A. A, B, C, D, E
• B. A, E, C, B, D
• C. A, E, C, D, B
• D. A, C, E, B, D

Hint:

Discharge ($Q$) decreases at every step: $Q_{\text{Main}} > Q_{\text{Branch}} > Q_{\text{Distributary}} > Q_{\text{Minor}}$. Only the small distributaries and minors usually provide water directly to the farmers' outlets.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: An irrigation canal network follows a hierarchical structure to convey water from a river or reservoir to the actual agricultural fields, with each subsequent stage carrying a smaller discharge.

Step 1: Identify the source and primary carrier.
The water is first diverted at the Head works (A). It then flows into the Main canal (E), which is the primary artery of the network but usually does not provide direct irrigation.

Step 2: Identify the distribution hierarchy.
The Main canal splits into Branch canals (C). These branch canals then feed into Distributaries (B) (Major distributaries). Finally, the water flows into Minors (D) (Minor distributaries) before reaching the final field channels or watercourses.