Solar Powered Dug Well Irrigation with Rain Water Harvesting System to Reduce Ground Water Overdraft at Joypurhat District in Bangladesh

Dug Well irrigation is a popular adoption to change traditional agriculture practices in the north-west region of Bangladesh. Due to consecutive years of drought, groundwater depletion, and shortage of rainfall, irrigation through solar-powered dug wells offers an alternative solution. This study examines the implementation of dug well irrigation systems installed by the Barind Multipurpose Development Authority (BMDA) in Joypurhat district. The systems incorporate solar pumps, underground uPVC pipelines, and rain water harvesting structures to reduce groundwater overdraft while enabling low water-consuming crop cultivation. Results show significant shifts in cropping patterns, increased cropping intensity, and improved access to irrigation and drinking water for farming communities. Rain water harvesting through funnel structures above dug wells annually collects approximately 127.48 m³ of water per installation. This environment-friendly technology demonstrates potential for sustainable agricultural development in water-stressed areas.