This can be lined, unlined or tube wells.

A well is a hole dug into the ground to obtain underground water by different methods.

(a) Unlined wells

are easier to dig and are not lined with bricks and are sometimes referred to as Kuchcha wells.

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(b) Lined wells

are lined with bricks and are perennial and are also known as ‘pucca wells’. These are more expensive to construct and can be dug where the soil is soft. The water can be drawn out by the Bucket system, Dekhli method, Mhote method or by the Water Wheel.

(c) Tube wells.

In this a boring is made in the ground and the water is then pumped out with the help of an electric pump. These can be used in those areas where electricity is cheap and there is surplus underground water. Tube wells are more reliable in times of drought and can irrigate larger areas in a short while.

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Advantages of Well Irrigation

1. Wells can be used according to one’s requirement.

2. It can be dug anywhere, provided the soil is soft and there is underground water.

3. The mineral content in the water adds to soil fertility.

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4. It is the simplest and cheapest source of irrigation.

Disadvantages of Well Irrigation

1. During summers when water is required wells dry up and are not of much use.

2. If the groundwater is brackish then well irrigation is not possible.

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Important areas

Well Irrigation is popular in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Bihar and Haryana.