Assessment of factors affecting the operational efficiency of small and medium irrigation system in vietnam’s Red river delta

Abstract

The operation and management of small and medium-sized irrigation system are key components in the integrated water resources management strategy, aiming to optimize the allocation and efficient use of water to meet sustainable socio-economic development needs. However, during operation, various factors affect the operational efficiency of these irrigation systems in the Red River Delta region. This study identifies five groups of factors influencing the operational efficiency of small and medium-sized irrigation system: (1) Natural conditions; (2) Investment and maintenance funding; (3) Technical conditions; (4) Policies and institutional mechanisms; and (5) Operation management. The research is based on a survey of 159 respondents in the Red River Delta, including managers, technical operators, experts, and company staff. Reliability testing using Cronbach’s Alpha, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), and multiple regression analysis revealed that policy mechanisms and natural conditions are the two primary factors affecting operational efficiency. Based on the analytical findings, the study proposes several solutions to enhance the management and operational efficiency of small and medium-sized irrigation system in the Red River Delta region.