Irrigation with Treadle pump

Photo: Jitendra Raj Bajracharya/ICIMOD.

Treadle pump  is a simple, cheap, and effective device for lifting water by alternate up and down movement of the legs on the bamboo treadle. It is recommended for lifting water up to 20 ft (vertical distance) from the water source which is more than that by a hand pump. It can be used for various purposes such as irrigation and water for domestic use. The pump does not require electricity or other external fueling system and therefore can be easily replicated in the hills.