The diversion headwork is a structure constructed at the head of the canal to divert the river water towards the canal, so as to ensure a regulated continuous supply of silt-free water with a certain minimum head into the canal. It usually provides a small storage capacity.
Purposes of diversion headwork
- It raises the water level in the river so that the commanded area is increased
- It regulates the supply of water into the canal
- It provides storage of water for a short period
- It controls the entry of silt into the canal
- It reduces the fluctuations in the level of supply in the river
The components of diversion head works consists of:
- Weir or barrage
- Divide wall
- Fish ladder
- Pocket or approach channel
- Under sluices or scouring sluices
- Silt excluder
- Canal head regulator
- River training works, such as marginal bunds, guide banks