FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

MANUAL FOR LINING IN

IRRIGATION CANALS IN
WEST BENGAL

APRIL 2018

GOVERNMENT OF WEST BENGAL

IRRIGATION & WATERWAYS DEPARTMENT
JALASAMPAD BHABAN, BIDHANNAGAR
KOLKATA 700091
 MANUAL FOR LINING IN
IRRIGATION CANALS IN
WEST BENGAL
Introduction

1.0 Lining of canals is an important feature of irrigation projects as it improves the flow
characteristics and minimizes the loss of water due to seepage. Lining also helps in
retention of shape of the canal. Functions of lining, apart from seepage control and
retention of shape of the canal, may include but not be limited to, increased hydraulic
efficiency, increased resistance to erosion / abrasion, and low operation and
maintenance cost.

Relevant BIS Codes for canal lining

2.0 Following Codes brought out by the Bureau of Indian Standards, after finalization of
the drafts by the Irrigation Canals & Canal Linings Sectional Committee, and
consequently approved by the River Valley Division Council, are relevant.

Sl. Title BIS Code No.

No.
1. Criteria for design of lined canals and IS 10430: 2000
guidance for selection of type of lining (Amended 2005 & Reaffirmed 2009)
(First Revision)
2. Laying cement concrete / stone slab IS 3873: 1993
lining on canals – Code of Practice (Amended 2000 & Reaffirmed 2004)
(Second Revision)
3. Canal linings – Cement Concrete Tiles IS 10646: 1991
– Specification (First Revision) (Amended September 2000
& Reaffirmed 2004)
4. Under Drainage of Lined Canals – Code IS 4558: 1995
of Practice (Second Revision) (Reaffirmed 2001)
5. Guidelines for lining of canals in IS 9451: 1994
expansive soils (Edition 3.1) (Reaffirmed 2004)

Apart from the above Codes, “Plain and Reinforcement Concrete – Code of Practice”
(IS 456: 2000, Reaffirmed 2005) is also relevant, for cement concrete lining,
particularly in regard to the environmental exposure condition, vis-à-vis minimum
grade of concrete for different exposures.

Objective of the Manual

3.0 Selection of a particular type of lining, keeping in consideration the general

requirements, as well as site specific requirements, including structural stability,

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 economy, availability of construction materials, machinery & equipment, skilled and
unskilled labour, subsequent repairability, ability to prevent weed growth, resistance
against burrowing animals, structural stability during and after construction etc.,
requires a judicious evaluation of various available options. The task is not easy for
the field level officials due to the exercise of consultation of so many Codes /
Guidelines, provision of which are mostly generalistic, applicable for the entire
country and may not always be truly representatives of the special features of sub-
grade soil in different districts / regions within the geographical boundary of the State.
Therefore, the field level officials often have to refer the cases to the Design Wing,
resulting in delay of the implementation of the projects. With a view to obviate these
difficulties, this Manual has been brought out to serve as a zone / districtwise ready
reckoner for the field level engineers for proper selection of type and other parameters
of lining, depending on discharge capacity of canals, position of Ground Water Table
(GWT), and soil characteristics. However, recommendations of the Manual would
generally be applicable to the normal soil characteristics or conditions generally found
in any region and the field level officials may still refer special cases involving typical
problems and issues, to the Design Wing of this Department, in case of any doubt.
The approach methodology, governing general guiding principles and recommenda-
tions for selection of lining in irrigation canals have been discussed in the subsequent
paragraphs.

Approach methodology for preparation of the Manual

4.0 Firstly, relevant codal provisions have been perused and correlated to follow a unified
approach. These have subsequently been compared with the engineering practices
being followed by the Department Officials in various districts since last fifty years,
keeping in view the availability of construction materials including relative merits and
demerits of these materials, trend of changes in construction technology over the
years and most importantly, success as well as failure stories in different areas or
projects together with reasons of such success and failure. Recommendations on the
basis of such comparative case studies have finally been suggested keeping in view
the following considerations:
 Adherence to the spirit of the provisions / guidelines of two relevant BIS Codes
and convergence of provisions with the prevailing good construction practices.
 Standardization of recommendations on the basis of following key parameters:
 Discharge capacity of the canals;
 General soil characteristics encountered in various zones and districts,
especially permeability of sub-grade soil;

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  Position of groundwater table;
 Availability of construction materials;
 Common difficulties faced during construction.
 Economy in design, without sacrificing stability and durability both during and
post construction.

Guiding Principles for determination of type, location and parameters of lining

5.0 Following guiding principles are recommended on the basis of the approach
methodology stated in Para 4.0 above.
5.1 As a general guidance and subject to results of the soil test and assessment of position
of Ground Water Table (GWT) stated in Para 5.2 hereinafter, following cases may be
considered for lining:
5.1.1 Canal lining only on the side slopes (canal bed excluded) may be provided,
(a) Where there is an established history / evidence of unstable side slope, causing
rapid and successive deposition of soil particles from sides into the canal bed,
canal section has been enlarged or deshaped, irrespective of whether the canal is
passing through full cutting, partial cutting-filling or full filling zone. However,
there should be no bed lining, when bed level is below existing ground level.
(b) Where canal is in partial cutting-filling or full cutting zone and GWT fluctuates
between bank level and bed level when canal is not in operation, and subsoil is
poor draining (i.e. coefficient of permeability varying from 10-4 cm/sec to 10-6
cm/sec) causing slope failure due to hydrostatic pressure.
(c) Normally, side slope lining is to be terminated at a level not exceeding FSL plus
prescribed Free Board. However, if the subgrade material on the side slope
contains gravelly soil, moorum or similar unstable materials causing perpetual
deposition of such materials within canal bed and if flatter side slope (2.0H : 1V
or more) cannot be provided above top of lining in deep cutting zone due to space
constraint or other reasons, lining in such exceptional cases may be extended upto
top of bank.
Note: Surveyed and superimposed cross and long sections as detailed in Para
5.3 hereinafter, are to be presented in the DPR along with the position of
GWT to and the coefficient of permeability stated in Para 5.2 hereinafter,
is also to be mentioned in the DPR, to justify the necessity of lining.

5.1.2 Canal lining on bed and also on side slopes may be provided, where canal is in fully
filling zone and subgrade is free draining, or closer to free draining, resulting in
significant seepage and/or there is not adequate cover (at least 0.6m) to the hydraulic
grade line (assumed 1:6), when the canal is running at FSL.

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5.1.3 In case of inadequate cover to hydraulic grade line stated in Para 5.1.2 above, which
cannot be provided by widening the embankment due to space constraint, following
additional measures are recommended:
(a) Providing 1.2m deep x 0.9m wide crated boulder sausage, with 0.3m embedment
on the toe of countryside slope, with a layer of 300mm thick graded shingles /
jhama khoa filter in the interface of the crated boulder and the earth of
embankment, extending upto the full height of the exposed position of the crate
(0.9m).
(b) Constructing a RCC cantilever type retaining wall, in case the hydraulic grade
line cuts the countryside slope of the embankment at a height of 0.9m above the
existing ground level, having adequate number of weep holes at suitable spacing
in two rows, and providing a layer of 300mm thick graded shingles / jhama khoa
filter in the interface between the stem of the retaining wall and the earth of
embankment, extending upto the full height of the stem, i.e. the height above GL
where the hydraulic grade line cuts the countryside slope.
Note: Surveyed and superimposed cross and long sections as detailed in Para
5.3 hereinafter, are to be presented in the DPR along with the position of
GWT to and the coefficient of permeability stated in Para 5.2 hereinafter,
is also to be mentioned in the DPR, to justify the necessity of lining.

5.1.4 In case expansive soil in the subgrade is encountered in the process of soil
investigation, governing principles and lining parameters should be adopted as per
provision of Para 7.0, including subparagraphs thereunder.

5.2 Following field tests are to be conducted and results are to be presented in the
DPR wherever any stretch of canal is proposed to be lined:
(a) Coefficient of permeability (i.e. ‘k’ in cm/sec) in the zone between bank top upto
a depth of 2.0m below the bed level of the canal
Depending on value of ‘k’ the soil may be classified as subgrade free draining
(k > 10-4 cm/sec), poor draining (10-6 cm/sec < 10-4 cm/sec) and practically
impervious (k < 10-6 cm/sec).

(b) Whether the soil is expansive (swelling) in nature from bank top upto a depth of
1.0m below the bed level of the canal.
Note: Two number of soil samples are to be taken, either one in bed and the
other on bank or both on the banks, having depth of bore hole extended
upto 2.0m below the bed level of the canal, for each 500m or part length
thereof, of continuous canal stretch to be lined for canal capacity beyond
1.50 cumec for each 1.5 km or part thereof for canals having lesser
capacity. No other investigation, apart from those stated in Para 5.2(a) and

4
 5.2(b) above is to be done. If permeability test cannot be done in-situ,
laboratory test on undisturbed sample may be done.

(c) In addition to above, variation of ground water table in the proposed stretch of
lining, both in the pre and post monsoon season is to be collected from the
Blockwise data maintained by the State Water Investigation Directorate (SWID)
wherever available and presented in the DPR.

5.3 Existing cross sections, normally at 60 m interval (which may suitably be increased
upto 150m in case of continuous lining of more than 500 m length), taken upto a
distance of 15m from the countryside toe of embankment, or from edge of the bank,
in deep cutting zone where there is no embankment, are to be superimposed on design
sections of the canal. Such cross sections are to be taken for a stretch of 120m on
upstream as well as on downstream or upto the nearest fall structure, whichever is
shorter. In a like manner, existing long section, superimposed over the designed long
section is also to be provided for the same stretch length.

5.4 Notwithstanding the guiding principles stated in subparagraphs 5.1.1 to 5.1.4

hereinbefore, following cases may be considered for lining, subject to soil
investigation and furnishing long and cross sections of the canals, in existing and
designed conditions, to ensure better hydraulic efficiency, minimize losses and
consequently to transport the water at the tail ends.
(a) Slope and bed lining in all canals in Purulia district, except in stretches passing
through rocky zones, having capacity less than 50 cusec (approximately 1.50
cumec).
(b) Only slope lining for all canals in Minor Irrigation Schemes (having irrigation
command area upto 2,000 ha), in all districts.
(c) Only slope lining for Minor / Sub-Minor Canals of Major and Medium Irrigation
Projects (having command area beyond 10,000 ha and in between 2,000 ha to
10,000 ha respectively), upto a stretch of initial 50% length in the head reach
from offtake head regulator of these canals, subject to the condition that capacity
of the canals is less than 35 cusec (1 cumec).

Recommended parameters on lining, filter materials and bank

slope (for all categories of soil other than expansive soil)

6.0 Various parameters as shown in the enclosed Drawing No. Misc/1092/1/2/18 of the
Central Design Office, Irrigation & Waterways Directorate, have been recommended,
which are to be selected following a step by step approach as stated below:
6.1 Type (i.e. cast-in-situ or precast) of lining, recommended thickness, plan dimension /
area and Free Board (FB) above Full Supply Level (FSL) are to be determined from

5
 Table-1, for categories of subgrade soil condition. These parameters would be
independent of soil characteristics and accordingly would be the same for al projects,
irrespective of the location districts. Plain Cement Concrete (PCC) lining is
recommended considering the aspects of strength, durability, easier repairability and
prevention of weed growth. Recommended grade of PCC is M20, considering severe
exposure condition and the minimum grade of PCC required for such exposure
condition as per Table-3 & Table-5 of IS 456:2000.

6.2 Depending on soil type and soil characteristics, various location districts of Major /
Medium / Minor Irrigation Projects have been classified in 4 (four zones) as shown
below:

Zone I : Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri, Siliguri Subdivision of Darjeeling and Uttar

Dinajpur.
Zone II : Western part of Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, Howrah and
northern part of Purba Medinipur.
Zone IV : Birbhum, Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman, Jhargram and Paschim
Medinipur.
Zone V : Purulia

6.2.1 Recommended range of side slopes and requirement of filler materials which are
dependent on soil characteristics and position of GWT are to be determined for any
project falling within any district(s) and Zone(s), from Table-2. Although these
parameters are not strictly related to discharge capacity of the canals, rationalization
of requirement of filter has been made for smaller size canals having discharge upto 5
cumec (176 cusec) within the overall recommended range as per codal provision,
based on acceptable engineering practice and past experience of successful execution
of project. Some variations have also been made, in case of practically impervious
subgrade, on practical considerations, with due regard to economy and durability.

6.3 There are a few parameters, which depend both on capacity of canals as well as soil
characteristics and position of GWT. However, with a view to standardize such
parameters to the extent feasible, optimum rationalization has been made, so as to
facilitate the selection of such parameters by the field level engineers, without
compromising the safety aspects. These parameters include,
(a) toe wall at the junction of bed and slope.
(b) top wall at top of lining.
(c) coping slab extending into the embankment / bank from the top wall.
(d) Longitudinal and transverse separator beams.
A ready reckoner to determine these parameters has been presented at Table-3.

6
Guidelines for lining of canals in expansive soils
7.0 Canals excavated in expansive soils, such as black cotton soil, pose several problems
affecting stability of slopes and shape of section. To have economical sections and
prevent erosion due to design velocities, it is necessary to line the canal bed and
slopes. Lining materials directly placed against the expansive soils undergo
deformation by heaving, disturbing the lining and throwing the canal out of
commission. This deformation is traced to the characteristics of swelling and
swelling pressure developed by expansive soils, when they imbibe water in their
intra-layers. Adequate thickness of “Cohesive Non-swelling Soil” (CNS) material is
found to resist swelling pressure and prevent the heaving of underlying soil. From
experiments in laboratory and field, it is concluded that deformations may be
correlated to the thickness of CNS layer and swelling pressure characteristics of
expansive soil. This part lays down guidelines for the treatment of expansive soils
by introduction of a CNS layer of suitable thickness between the expansive soil mass
and the lining material (including filter material below) to counteract the swelling
pressure and resultant deformation of the lining material on a scientific basis.
7.1 General
7.1.1 Expansive soils in side slopes and bed of canal in cutting or embankment when in
contact with water swell, exerting a swelling pressure which may range from 50 to
300 KN/m2 or more. This characteristic of swelling and the swelling pressures of
black cotton soils is attributed to the pressure of montmorinolite or combination of
montmorinolite and illite clay minerals. A wide range of properties of expansive
soils are found in India (see IS 1498: 1970 for identification and properties). The
swelling pressure and free swell index tests should be done in accordance with IS
2720(Part 40): 1977 and IS 2720 (Part 41): 1977.Expansive soil met within the
locality has to be analysed for swelling pressure before deciding the type of
treatment. For testing the expansive soil for determination of swelling pressure, the
expansive soil specimen should be remoulded at zero moisture content to the density
obtainable at any time in the year in the field at a depth beyond 1.0 m (in expansive
soil). The swelling pressure should be determined under no volume change
condition when moisture content is increased from zero to full saturation level.

7.1.2 Cohesive Non-swelling Soils (CNS) for Treatment

7.1.2.1 These are soils possessing the property of cohesion of varying degree and non-
expanding type clay minerals such as illite and kaolinite and their combination with
low plasticity with liquid limit not exceeding 50 percent.
7.1.2.2 Some of the soils which may be considered as cohesive non-swelling soils are all
adequately compacted clayey soils, silty clays, sandy clays, gravelly sandy clays,

7
 etc, exhibiting cohesive properties and containing predominantly non-expanding
type clay minerals.

7.1.2.3 CNS material should be non-swelling with a maximum swelling pressure of 10

KN/m2when tested in accordance with IS 2720(Part 41): 1977 at optimum moisture
content and minimum cohesion (unconfined compression strength on saturated
compacted soil, remoulded at OMC and compacted to standard proctor density)
should be10 KN/m2 when tested according to IS: 2720 (Part 10): 1991.

7.1.2.4 If given CNS material is not available, designed mix to produce blended CNS may
be used. The artificial CNS should satisfy all the requirements of CNS. If stabilized
material is to be used, special mix design needs to be evolved.

7.1.2.5 Most moorums of laterite, laterite type and siliceous sandy clays exhibit CNS
characteristics; however, some moorums may be of swelling type. Unlike swelling
soils, they do not exhibit cracking during summer, nor heaving and stickiness during
rainy season. Structures constructed on such soil do not exhibit heave though they
may sometimes settle. The CNS are generally red, reddish yellow, brown, yellow,
white, whitish grey, whitish yellow, green and greenish grey in colour. Although,
several soils containing non-expanding type clay mineral exhibit CNS properties, the
following range helps in locating such types:
Clay (less than 2 microns) : 15% to 20%
Silt (Silt (0.06 mm to 0.002 mm) : 30% to 40%
Sand (2.0 mm to 0.06 mm) : 30% to 40%
Gravel (greater than 2.0 mm) : 0% to 10%
Liquid Limit : Greater than 30% but less than 50%
Plasticity Index : Greater than 15% but less than 30%
7.2 Criteria for fixing the thickness of CNS layer
7.2.1 Thickness of CNS materials is related to swelling pressure and the resultant
deformation, the permissible deformation being 2cm.
7.2.2 Guidelines for choosing the thickness of CNS materials required for balancing the
different swelling pressures is given in Table below. Slopes should be in accordance
with IS: 10430: 2000.

Thickness of CNS Layer, for canal carrying capacity less than 2.0 Cumec
Discharge Thickness of CNS Layer in mm (Min)
in Cumec Swelling Pressure Swelling Pressure
50 to 150 KN/m2 more than 150 KN/m2
1.40 to 2.00 600 750
0.70 to 1.40 500 600
0.30 to 0.70 400 500
0.03 to 0.30 300 400

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 Thickness of CNS Layer, for canal carrying
capacity 2.0 Cumec and more
Swelling pressure of soil Thickness of CNS Layer in mm
KN/m2 (Min)
50 to 150 750
150 to 300 850
300 to 500 1000

Note: However, optimum thickness of CNS materials needs

to be determined for different swelling pressures by
actual experiments both in field and laboratory, if
required

7.3 Construction Procedure

To counteract the swelling pressure and prevent deformation of the rigid lining
materials, a CNS material of required thickness depending on the swelling pressure
of expansive soil, is sandwiched between the expansive soil and the filter material,
below the lining. The thickness of CNS layer should be measured perpendicular to
the surface of expansive soil.
7.3.1 Canal in cutting
7.3.1.1 Special care will be necessary to compact the CNS materials against the excavated
surface of the cuts. The material should be spread uniformly in their horizontal
layers of 15cm thickness. Care is also necessary in obtaining a good joint between
the two materials, by thoroughly wetting the excavated surface, so as to avoid slips
at the junction plane.
The construction should be carried out in the following steps:
(a) Subgrade may suitably be excavated for accommodating required thickness of
CNS layer on bed and sides. The subgrade on which CNS layer is to be laid
should generally not be kept exposed for more than four days, prior to the
placement of the CNS layer.
(b) Serrations should be provided in expansive soil to prevent contact slides
between CNS materials and expansive soil.
(c) Proper moistures should be added to CNS material.

(d) CNS material should be compacted in layers by appropriate equipment to

ensure proper density.
(e) CNS on side slopes should be trimmed to the required thickness. The thickness
is measured perpendicular to the surface of expansive soil.

9
 (f) Filter material over CNS material should be provided followed by laying of
PCC (M20) lining units.
(g) To avoid slipping and rain cuts during the rainy season, it is advisable to
provide CNS right up to the ground level.
(h) In deep cuts CNS material should be provided not only behind the lining of the
canal but also above the canal prism, all along the excavated surface, so as to
prevent large scale heaving above the canal level. The CNS material above the
canal prism may be of lesser thickness, say 15 to 20cm. However, full design
thickness behind the lining should be continued at least 100 cm above the top
level of the lining (illustrator arrangement shown in Figure-1).
(i) The stability of the slopes, particularly in the case of cuts, is very adversely
affected by rain water finding its way into the tension cracks and exerting
hydrostatic force on the slipping mass of the soil. Covering the surface of the
slopes by CNS materials and proper surface drainage will reduce the chances of
rain water finding its way into the cracks.
(j) It is necessary to stack the excavated soil away from the cuts to prevent it
inducing slips by surcharge.
7.3.2 Canal in embankment (filling)
The construction should be carried out in the following steps:
(a) Proper moisture should be added to CNS material and expansive soil.
(b) Expansive soil and CNS material above ground level should be compacted
simultaneously, in layers, with appropriate equipment to ensure proper density.
(c) The CNS materials in embankment should be laid and compacted in layers
simultaneously with the body of the banks, so as to obtain good compaction and
to avoid any slippage plane being developed between the two materials. The
compaction of CNS materials should also be to the standard proctor density
with optimum moisture content. It may be done preferably either with sheep
foot rollers or 8 to 10 ton ordinary rollers.
(d) Provision of drainage filter should be made to minimize external/internal
erosion. A rock toe with inverted filter may also be provided at either end of
canal bank, if required. As an alternative to rock toe, provisions of Para 5.1.3 (a)
& (b) may also be followed.
(e) Special care is required to be taken to provide internal drainage for the banks,
having bed filling of 2 metres or more.

10
 (f) For both the cuts and banks, paved surface drains should be provided at the
berms etc., to avoid erosion of the finished surface. As far as possible, water
from these drains should be drained away from the canal.
(g) The drainage properties of the CNS material itself need to be given due
consideration as water locked up in this saturated layer is likely to cause pore
pressures on the lining during canal draw-down conditions.
(h) Moorum (Gravelly Soil) material on outer slopes of canal embankment should
be trimmed to the required thickness.
(i) To protect outer slopes from erosion, proper turfing should be used.

7.3.3 Similar procedure should be followed for canals in partial cutting and embankment.

2MAND
2M ABOVE
ANDABOVE

Figure – 1

7.3.4 Pride
7.3.4.1 The problem of effectively compacting the subgrade for side lining on slopes is very
important in case of black cotton expansive soil zone in cutting or embankments,
where backfill of CNS material is required to be placed for the sides and bed, in
addition to design thickness. 20cm or so (perpendicular to side slope) of extra pride
may be provided and compacted in horizontal layers to the required density. This
pride should be removed only just prior to the placement of lining, thus making a
fresh and well compacted surface available for bedding.

11
7.3.4.2 For cutting in soft material where the CNS backfilling is not required the best
method is to leave the cutting 20cm or so undercut (perpendicular to the canal slope)
and remove this undercut only just prior to the placement of concrete lining. Similar
procedure may be adopted in case of cutting in hard strata.

7.4 Lining
The lining should be plain cement concrete, cast-in-situ or precast, depending on
recommendations of Table 1.0. All round gap of 6mm in case of precast lining and
12mm for cast-in-situ lining needs to be provided, as Gaps in case of precast lining
are to be kept open and not to be sealed or packed. However, gaps between cast-in-
situ lining panels are to be packed with bajrees / stone chips of 5.6mm size.
Polythene sheets (100 m) placed below the cast-in-situ lining are to be cut at joint
locations between two adjacent units, after casting, so as to expose the filter below.
These apart, holes are to be kept in both precast and cast-in-situ lining for better
under-drainage, as stated in Para 7.6 below.
7.5 Side slopes, termination level of lining and other parameters like toe wall, top wall,
coping slab, longitudinal and transverse separator beams.

Recommended side slope should be 1.5:1 in the range of 1.75:1 for cutting and upto
top of lining and in the range of 1.5:1 to 2:1 for filing and beyond the top of lining.
Other parameters should be as per Table 3.0.

7.6 Filter and Under-drainage

A layer of 200mm thick medium sand (Grading Zone-II as per IS: 383-1970) is to be
provided as filter in between the bottom of lining and top of CNS layer. PVC pipes,
30mm dia for precast lining and 50mm dia for cast-in-situ lining, top flush with the
finished surface of lining, with full embedment in filter and partial embedment in the
CNS layer, upto 2/3rd of full depth of the CNS layer, are to be laid in the centre of
the each or alternate panels, depending on canal capacity both longitudinally and
transversely in bed as well as in slope. The pipes are to be packed with 22.4mm
bajrees or 20mm nominal grade stone aggregates.

7.7 Drawing No. Misc/1092/2/2/18 of the Central Design Office, Irrigation &
Waterways Directorate may be referred to for various details.

7.8 In case of any doubts of determination of CNS materials and other precautions to be
taken during lining in expansive soil, the filed level officials may consult the Central
Design Office.

12
Preparation of subgrade, laying of lining, filter and other related issued

8.0 Relevant provisions may be perused in the BIS Code referred in Para 2.0
hereinbefore, and in Paragraphs 2.3.2.3, 2.7.1, 2.7.2, 2.7.3, 2.7.4, 2.7.8, 2.7.9 and
2.7.10 of the Unified Schedule of Rates of Irrigation & Waterways Department, and
also Schedule of Rates of Public Works Department, for taking the supply rates of
medium sand, bajree, stone chips and river grits comprising 12.6 or 5.6mm down
coarse stone aggregates. Labour charges for laying the filter may be collected from
the USoR of the Irrigation & Waterways Department (including addenda &
corrigenda).

Conclusion

9.0 It would be evident from the foregoing discussions and recommendations that lining
in irrigation canals in West Bengal, which are already under operation since decades,
should be done after adequate field investigation. Considering the facts that there is
little scope of redesigning the existing canals and some amount of seepage loss may
always be allowed from the point of view of indirect benefit arising out of recharge of
groundwater, selection of stretches for lining should be judicious and based on
adequate justification. Any departure from the recommendations must be got
approved by the Central Design Office, Irrigation & Waterways Department.

Sd: P Patra Sd: T R Barua Sd: S Kundu

26.04.2018 26.04.2018 26.04.2018
Superintending Engineer Director of Designs Superintending Engineer
Inv. & Planning Circle-II Central Design Office Metropolitan Drainage Circle
I & W Directorate I & W Directorate I & W Directorate
& & &
Member Member Member
Technical Committee Technical Committee Technical Committee

Sd: A Ghosh Sd: A K Basu

26.04.2018 26.04.2018
Chief Engineer (South West) Chief Engineer (D & R)
Irrigation & Waterways Directorate Irrigation & Waterways Directorate
& &
Member Chairman
Technical Committee Technical Committee

13
 Size, thickness and type of lining for all zones and all categories of sub-grade and soil condition (Refer to Figure-1)
(Drawing No. Misc/1092/1/2/18 of the Central Design Office, Irrigation & Waterways Directorate)
Table 1.0

Capacity of canal Thickness of PCC Recommended Plan dimension / area Remarks Recommended free
Lining (M20) Board above FSL
Cumec Cusec Cast-in- Precast Cast-in-situ Precast upto top of lining
situ (mm) (mm)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
0 to 5 0 to 176 65 65 Bed: In between Bed: 1. Panel size of cast-in-situ and precast lining 0.30 m
Plan area : 0.25 m² to 1.00 m² Plan area : 0.20 m² should conform to Col.5 & Col.6 respec- (upto 1 cumec)
Max. dimension : 1.00 m Max. dimension : 0.50 m tively. 0.60 m
Min. dimension : 0.50 m Min. dimension : 0.40 m 2. Precast lining preferred in both bed and on (1 to 5 cumec)
Sides: : Same as above Sides: Same as above side slopes.
5 to 50 176 to 1766 75 75 Bed: In between Bed: 1. Panel size of cast-in-situ and precast lining 0.75 m
Plan area : 1.00 m² to 4.00 m² Plan area : 0.25 m² should conform to Col.5 & Col.6 respec-
Max. dimension : 2.00 m Max. dimension : 0.55 m tively.
Min. dimension : 1.00 m Min. dimension : 0.45 m 2. Cast-in-situ lining preferred in bed and
Sides: : Same as above Sides: Same as above precast lining preferred on side slopes.
3. 1 No. 30 mm dia hole spaced centrally
may be kept in each unit of precast lining
unit for handling.
50 to 250 1766 to 8828 90 90 Bed: In between Bed: 1. Panel size of cast-in-situ and precast lining 0.75 m
(in slope Plan area : 4.00 m² to 6.25 m² Plan area : – should conform to Col.5 & Col.6 respec-
Only) Max. dimension : 2.50 m Max. dimension : – tively.
Min. dimension : 2.00 m Min. dimension : – 2. Precast lining is not recommended in
Sides: : Same as above Sides: bed.
Plan area : 0.25 m² 3. Choice of type of lining on side slope, i.e.
Max. dimension : 0.55 m cast-in-situ or pre-cast, would depend on
Min. dimension : 0.45 m site conditions.
4. 1 No. 30 mm dia hole spaced centrally
may be kept in each precast lining unit for
handling.
250 to 500 8828 to 17655 125 – Bed: In between Bed: 1. Panel size of cast-in-situ and precast lining 0.90 m
Plan area : 6.25 m² to 9.00 m² Plan area : – should conform to Col.5 & Col.6 respec-
Max. dimension : 3.0 m Max. dimension : – tively.
Min. dimension : 2.5 m Min. dimension : – 2 Precast lining is not recommended in bed
Sides: : Same as above Sides: – : – or side slope.
Note: As stated in Para 2.3.2.3 of the Unified Schedule of Rate (USoR) of the Irrigation & Waterways Department, a layer of thick polythene sheet (100 m) is to be placed below the cast-in-
situ lining, before casting to prevent clogging of filter. If the sheet is continuous, it must be cut at joint locations after casting, so as to fully expose the sand filter below.
14
 Recommendations on side slope and requirement of filter below lining in bed and on sides depending on the sub-grade
characteristics (other than expansive soils) and position of water table (Refer to Figure-1)
(Drawing No.Misc/1092/1/2/18 of the Central Design Office, Irrigation & Waterways Directorate)
Table 2.0

Zone Districts covered Soil type Sub- General description of soil Recommended side slope Position of Requirement of filter Arrangement
zone for depth of cutting / height Groundwater for pressure release
of embankment (H:V) Table
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
I.  Jalpaiguri Mainly – Soil comprising fine sand, Case – A Range Below canal bed A(I) Medium sand (Grading A. For precast lining
 Siliguri Subdivision Terai – admixture of sand, silt and clay, Cutting & upto top 1.5 : 1 / between canal Zone-II as per IS: 383-1970) 6mm all round gaps
of Darjeeling Teesta i.e. sandy silt / silty sand/ clay of lining to bed & FSL / of 150mm thick layer for between adjacent pre-
 Uttar Dinajpur alluvial sand / clay silt, permeability 1.75 : 1 above FSL canals of capacity upto 5 cast units, not to be
considered to be in the range of cumec (176 cusec). sealed or packed.
Case – B Range
10-4 cm/sec to 10-6 cm/sec (poor
draining). Filling and beyond 1.75 : 1 or B. For cast-in-situ lining
top of lining to A(II) Medium sand (Grading 1. 12mm all round gaps
2:1 Zone-II as per IS: 383-1970) between adjacent
of 200mm thick layer for panels, to be packed
Note:
Appropriate slope to be canals of capacity beyond 5 with river grits (5.6mm
cumec (176 cusec). down).
selected within the ranges
stated above. Flatter slope or 2. 50mm dia PVC pipe,
preferable for stability. B. UV stabilized polypropylene top flush with finished
non-woven 300 gsm geo- surface of lining and
textile filters for all canal upto 300mm embed-
capacities. ment in virgin ground,
fully packed with 22.4
Note:
mm down bajrees, to be
From economic point of view and laid at the centre of
also to facilitate laying of lining alternate panels, upto 50
blocks, use of medium sand is cumec canal capacity
preferred to geotextile filter. and in each panel,
However, geotextile filters may be beyond that capacity,
used for reasons to be recorded in both longitudinally &
writing. transversely, in bed and
on side slopes.
Special Note: Normally lining is to be terminated on slope at a level equal to FSL + Free Board. In deep cutting and high filling zone (height exceeding 4.5m), cases may arise where slope
beyond the top of lining cannot be flattened due to space constraint. If the subgrade material is loose sandy / fine silty type in such cases and if there is evidence / history of
perpetual deposition of such soil particles into canal bed from the unlined upper portion, lining may be extended upto the top of canal bank in exceptional cases, subject to prior
approval of the concerned Chief Engineer.

15
 Table 2.0 (Contd.)

Zone Districts covered Soil type Sub- General description of soil Recommended side slope for Position of Requirement of filter Arrangement
zone depth of cutting / height of Groundwater for pressure release
embankment (H:V) Table
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
II.  Western part of Mainly A. Soil comprising admixture of Case – A Range Below canal bed A(I) Medium sand (Grading A. For precast lining
Murshidabad Vindhya sand, silt and clay, i.e. sandy silt Cutting & upto top 1.5 : 1 / between canal Zone-II as per IS: 383-1970) 6mm all round gaps
 Purba Bardhaman alluvial / sandy clay / clay silt, of lining bed & FSL / of 150mm thick layer for between adjacent
 Hooghly permeability considered to be above FSL canals of capacity upto 5 precast units, not to be
 Howrah and closer to 10-6 cm/sec (poor cumec (176 cusec). sealed or packed.
Case – B Range
draining).
 Northern part of Filling and beyond 1.5 : 1
Purba Medinipur top of lining to
or
2:1 B. For cast-in-situ lining
Note: A(II) Medium sand (Grading
Appropriate slope to be Zone-II as per IS: 383-1970) 1. 12mm all round gaps
selected within the ranges of 200mm thick layer for between adjacent
stated above. Flatter slope canals of capacity beyond 5 panels, to be packed
preferable for stability. cumec (176 cusec). with stone chips
(5.6mm).

or
2. 50mm dia PVC pipe,
B. UV stabilized polypropylene top finish with finished
non-woven 300 gsm geo- surface of lining and
textile filters for all canal upto 300mm embed-
capacities. ment in virgin ground,
Note: fully packed with 20
From economic point of view and mm nominal graded
also to facilitate laying of lining stone aggregates, to be
blocks, use of medium sand is laid at the centre of
preferred to geotextile filter. alternate panels, upto
However, geotextile filters may be 50 cumec canal capa-
used for reasons to be recorded in city and in each panel,
writing. beyond that capacity,
both longitudinally &
transversely, in bed and
on side slopes.
Special Note: Normally lining is to be terminated on slope at a level equal to FSL + Free Board. In deep cutting and high filling zone (height exceeding 4.5m), cases may arise where slope
beyond the top of lining cannot be flattened due to space constraint. If the subgrade material is loose sandy / fine silty type in such cases and if there is evidence / history of
perpetual deposition of such soil particles into canal bed from the unlined upper portion, lining may be extended upto the top of canal bank in exceptional cases, subject to prior
approval of the concerned Chief Engineer.
16
 Table 2.0 (Contd.)

Zone Districts covered Soil Sub- General description of soil Recommended side slope for Position of Requirement of filter Arrangement
type zone depth of cutting / height of Groundwater for pressure release
embankment (H:V) Table
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
IV.  Birbhum Mostly – Soil comprising sand, moorum, Case – A Range Below canal bed A(I) Medium sand (Grading A. For precast lining
 Bankura red silt and often silty clay, Cutting & upto top 1.5 : 1 / between canal Zone-II as per IS: 383-1970) 6mm all round gaps
 Paschim Bardhaman laterite permeability generally varies of lining bed & FSL / of 150mm thick layer for between adjacent
 Paschim Medinipur from 10-4 cm/sec to 10-6 cm/sec Case – B Range above FSL canals of capacity upto 5 precast units, not to be
 Jhargram (poor draining). Filling and beyond 1.5 : 1 cumec (176 cusec). sealed or packed.
top of lining to or B. For cast-in-situ lining
2:1 A(II) Medium sand (Grading 1. 12mm all round gaps
Note: Zone-II as per IS: 383-1970) between adjacent
Appropriate slope to be of 200mm thick layer for panels, to be packed
selected from the ranges canals of capacity beyond 5 with stone chips
stated above. Flatter slope cumec (176 cusec). (5.6mm).
preferable for stability.
or 2. 50mm dia PVC pipe,
top finish with
B. UV stabilized polypropylene
finished surface of
non-woven 300 gsm geo-
lining and upto
textile filters for all canal
300mm embedment in
capacities.
virgin ground, fully
Note: packed with 20 mm
From economic point of view and nominal graded stone
also to facilitate laying of lining aggregates, to be laid
blocks, use of medium sand is at the centre of
preferred to geotextile filter. alternate panels, upto
However, geotextile filters may be 50 cumec canal
used for reasons to be recorded in capacity and in each
writing. panel, beyond that
capacity, both longitu-
dinally & trans-
versely, in bed and on
side slopes.
Special Note: Normally lining is to be terminated on slope at a level equal to FSL + Free Board. In deep cutting and high filling zone (height exceeding 4.5m), cases may arise where slope
beyond the top of lining cannot be flattened due to space constraint. If the subgrade material is loose sandy / fine silty / moorum type, in such cases and if further there is evidence /
history of continuous deposition of such soil particles into canal bed from the unlined upper portion, lining may be extended upto the top of canal bank in exceptional cases, subject
to prior approval of the concerned Chief Engineer.

17
 Table 2.0 (Contd.)

Zone Districts covered Soil type Sub- General description of soil Recommended side slope for Position of Requirement of filter Arrangement
zone depth of cutting / height of Groundwater for pressure release
embankment (H:V) Table
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
V.  Purulia Gravelly – Sandy soil mixed with moorum Case – A Range Below canal bed A(I) Medium sand (Grading A. For precast lining
soil and gravel, occasionally with Cutting & upto top 1.5 : 1 / between canal Zone-II as per IS: 383-1970) 6mm all round gaps
silty clay. Permeability varying of lining bed & FSL / of 150mm thick layer for between adjacent
from 10-4 cm/sec to 10-6 cm/sec Case – B Range above FSL canals of capacity upto 5 precast units, not to be
but occasionally more than 10-4 Filling and beyond 2:1 cumec (176 cusec). sealed or packed.
cm/sec (poor to fine draining). top of lining B. For cast-in-situ lining
to or
2.5 : 1 A(II) Medium sand (Grading 1. 12mm all round gaps
Zone-II as per IS: 383-1970) between adjacent
of 200mm thick layer for panels, to be packed
canals of capacity beyond 5 with stone chips
cumec (176 cusec). (5.6mm).
or 2. 50mm dia PVC pipe,
top finish with
B. UV stabilized polypropylene
finished surface of
non-woven 300 gsm geo-
lining and upto
textile filters for all canal
300mm embedment in
capacities.
virgin ground, fully
Note: packed with 20 mm
From economic point of view and nominal graded stone
also to facilitate laying of lining aggregates, to be laid
blocks, use of medium sand is at the centre of
preferred to geotextile filter. alternate panels, upto
However, geotextile filters may be 50 cumec canal capa-
used for reasons to be recorded in city and in each panel,
writing. beyond that capacity,
both longitudinally &
transversely, in bed
and on side slopes.

Special Note: Normally lining is to be terminated on slope at a level equal to FSL + Free Board. In deep cutting and high filling zone (height exceeding 4.5m), cases may arise where slope
beyond the top of lining cannot be flattened due to space constraint. If the subgrade material is loose sandy / fine silty / moorum or gravelly type, in such cases and if further there
is evidence / history of continuous deposition of such soil particles into canal bed from the unlined upper portion, lining may be extended upto the top of canal bank in exceptional
cases, subject to prior approval of the concerned Chief Engineer.

18
 Dimensions of toe wall, top wall, coping slab from top wall, longitudinal and transverse separator beams
(Refer to Drawing No. Misc/1092/1/2/18 of the Central Design Office, Irrigation & Waterways Directorate)

Table 3.0

Capacity of canal Toe wall Dimensions of top wall & horizontal Dimensions of transverse & Dimensions of longitu- Remarks
dimensions coping slab extending from top wall into separator beams in bed and dinal separator beams
the embankment / bank on side slope and also on slope
longitudinal separator beam
in bed

Cumec Cusec bw Dw bT DT LC tC bb Db bs Ds

0 to1.5 0 to 50 250 450 200 300 300 100 200 300 200 300 DT & Db may be reduced by 50mm if
geotextile filter is used.

1.5 to 5.0 50 to 176 300 450 200 300 400 100 250 300 250 300 DT & Db may be reduced by 75mm if
geotextile filter is used.

5.0 to 50 176 to 1766 350 600 250 350 550 125 250 350 250 350 DT & Db may be reduced by 100mm if
geotextile filter is used.

50 to 250 1766 to 8820 400 600 300 400 600 150 300 400 300 400 DT & Db may be reduced by 150mm if
geotextile filter is used.

250 to 500 8820 to 17655 450 600 300 450 650 150 300 450 300 450 DT & Db may be reduced by 200mm if
geotextile filter is used.

Note: 1. Longitudinal separator beam should be used only in the bed of canals, to divide the bed width in minimum number of more or less equal panels having width 30m or less, in case the
designed bed width is more than 30m.

2. Spacing of transverse separator beams, both in bed and also on slope, should generally be 30m c/c/, except at the stretch having bends, where smaller spacing may be used.

3. In case height of lining on side slope exceeds 4.5m, the total height may be segregated in minimum number of more or less equal sized panels, each having height 4.5m or less, by
providing a longitudinal separator beam along the slope.

19
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