Salinization of agricultural lands due to poor drainage: A viewpoint

A timely and adequate water supply to crops is a requirement for sustainable food production to the burgeoning world populace. Although sufficient water supply is necessary for crop production, the excess water in the rootzone is detrimental to crop growth and yield. Poor land drainage and associated salinization correspond to severe threats to the long-term sustainability of irrigated agriculture as these cause a reduction in crop growth and yield. To provide ideal aeration in the rootzone, an apt drainage is necessary on poorly drained agricultural lands. This paper provides an overview of various measures and their suitability and limitations in managing the land salinization and rising groundwater level problems of irrigated areas. The aptness and restrictions of surface drainage, subsurface drainage, mole drainage, tile drainage, vertical drainage, and biodrainage in managing the problems of agricultural lands are explored in the paper. Conclusions are provided that can be of use to the readers.