WATERLOGGING AND SALINITY: BARRIERS AND DIFFICULTIES IN THE REHABILITATION OF LAND RESOURCES

Abstract

One-third of agricultural land is currently grappling with issues of salinity and waterlogging. In various regions of Haryana, including Hisar, Sirsa, Rohtak, Jhajjar, and certain villages in the Charkhi Dadri district, the water table has risen to varying depths. This phenomenon has rendered a significant portion of the land unsuitable for agricultural use. Agricultural ecosystems are managed environments designed for the cultivation of crops and fodder for livestock. In some villages within the study area, the primary crops include mustard, bajra, rice, and wheat. However, in recent years, there has been a substantial increase in rice cultivation. This shift can be attributed to enhanced canal-based irrigation and the seepage of water from earthen canals, which have elevated water levels. Consequently, the growth of traditional crops has been hindered, while the cultivation of wheat, rice, and other water-loving weeds has been promoted. Additionally, due to the potential for greater economic returns, farmers have chosen to grow wheat and rice out of preference rather than necessity. These crops require significant irrigation, leading to severe waterlogging issues in some low-lying areas. The extensive irrigation practices in these villages have contributed to both waterlogging and soil salinity. The survey revealed that the soil's underlying strata, beneath the A-horizon, contains a clay layer that obstructs the natural drainage of surface water. Moreover, there is adequate recharge of groundwater from canals and monsoon rains. This paper aims to explore various strategies for managing water salinity and reclaiming waterlogged lands, as well as to propose an effective model for water drainage. Agroforestry regions appear to be less impacted by waterlogging and salinity, suggesting that such practices could be beneficial in addressing these challenges. Keywords: bio-drainage, water logging, salinity, evapotranspiration, seepage.