Cost Recovery and Water Pricing for Irrigation and Drainage : What Works?

Abstract

No silver bullet exists to improve cost recovery or water use efficiency of irrigation systems. However, many countries provide examples of successful reforms that policymakers and system managers can draw upon for inspiration and ideas. A successful system will have the appropriate mix of technology, management, policy, and institutional arrangements that facilitate transparent and efficient service delivery and increase farmer's willingness to pay and to use limited water resources more efficiently. This note is based on the larger volume of the same name, which outlines guidelines for designing a successful system for cost recovery and efficient water use and provides numerous case studies of successful implementation.