The Spatio- Temporal Study of Net Irrigated Area in Pune District (2009-2024)

Abstract This study examines the spatio-temporal changes in the net irrigated area across the tahsils of Pune district between 2009 and 2024. The research utilized secondary data on the net irrigated area collected from the Agriculture Department and the Socio-Economic Review and District Statistical Abstract of Pune District. The main objective was to analyse the changes in the net irrigated area and the factors responsible for its growth. The findings indicate a positive overall trend at the district level, with the total net irrigated area increasing by 61,109 hectares, from 2,69,896 ha in 2009 to 3,31,005 ha in 2024. The irrigation systems in the district are primarily a mix of canal irrigation, lift irrigation, and groundwater-based systems (dug wells and piezometers). However, the analysis revealed significant spatial variations. Tahsils in the relatively flat Deccan plains in the eastern and southern parts, such as Shirur (+51,378 ha), Purandar (+15,846 ha), Baramati (+9,090 ha), and Indapur (+6,453 ha), showed major increases in irrigated area. Conversely, several western tahsils experienced a decline, with Haveli recording the largest loss (-14,449 ha), mainly attributed to rapid urbanization and the conversion of agricultural land. Other declining tahsils included Bhor (-4,257 ha), Junnar (-2,162 ha), Mawal (-1,774 ha), Mulshi (-1,535 ha), and Velhe (-1,301 ha)