Question

Which of the following are the major diversion works completed during the period 1836 to 1866?
A. Upper Ganga Canal
B. Mutha Canal
C. Upper Bari-Doab Canal
D. Krishna Delta
Choose the correct answer from the options given below

• A. A, B and D only
• B. B, C and D only
• C. A, C and D only
• D. A, B and C only

Hint:

The Upper Ganga Canal (1854) and Sir Arthur Cotton's Krishna Delta Anicut (1855) are two of the most famous British-era irrigation structures, both built in the mid-19th century.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The period between 1836 and 1866 was a highly active era of irrigation engineering in India, during which several landmark river diversion works and massive canal systems were completed.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us verify the completion dates of the listed projects:
- A. Upper Ganga Canal: Designed by Sir Proby Cautley, construction commenced in 1842 and the canal was opened in 1854. This lies within the 1836-1866 window.
- B. Mutha Canal: The Khadakwasla Dam and associated Mutha Canal project in Pune were constructed later, starting around 1869 and completed in 1879. This lies outside the 1836-1866 window.
- C. Upper Bari-Doab Canal: Built to divert water from the Ravi River in Punjab, this major work was completed and opened in 1859, placing it within the specified period.
- D. Krishna Delta System: The Bezwada Anicut across the Krishna River was designed and constructed by Sir Arthur Cotton between 1852 and 1855, placing it within the specified period.
Therefore, projects A, C, and D were completed between 1836 and 1866.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct combination is A, C and D only.