UNEQUAL ACCESS AND DISTRIBUTION OF WATER IN THE RIBEIRA-SE IRRIGATED PERIMETER

Abstract

The Poção da Ribeira Irrigated Perimeter, located in Sergipe and managed by CODERSE, was created in 1987 as a state public policy to minimize water scarcity problems and strengthen agriculture in a transitional area of ​​the semi-arid region, marked by low rainfall. Covering 1,970 hectares, with 650 irrigated, the project benefits approximately 4,660 people and supplies the municipalities of Itabaiana and Areia Branca-SE, in addition to providing vegetables for local and interstate markets. Despite Law 9.433/97 establishing water as a resource to be distributed fairly, the system faces problems stemming from maintenance and management. Water distribution within the perimeter occurs in four-hour daily shifts per plot, but irrigators report insufficient time, leading to illegal diversions that harm other producers, especially those located far from the pumping station. This qualitative study highlights the need for stricter oversight and public policies that guarantee equal access to this natural resource.