Question

Interceptor drains are used to intercept flow from

• A. Sloping areas only
• B. Seepage from irrigation networks only
• C. Sloping areas and seepage from irrigation networks only
• D. Neither sloping nor seepage from irrigation networks

Hint:

Interceptor drains = Cutoff drains installed along hillslope toes and canal boundaries to intercept lateral seepage and subsurface flow.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Interceptor drains (relief/cutoff drains) are deep trenches placed across flow paths to intercept and divert lateral subsurface groundwater flow.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Interceptor Drains are installed transversely across the direction of hydraulic gradient:
1. At the base of higher sloping hillsides to intercept lateral subsurface flow before it reaches valley bottom farmlands.
2. Parallel to unlined irrigation canals and main channels to intercept seepage water before it causes canal-side waterlogging and secondary soil salinization.
Therefore, interceptor drains are used to intercept flow from both sloping areas and seepage from irrigation networks.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, interceptor drains intercept flow from Sloping areas and seepage from irrigation networks only, corresponding to option (C).