Salinization occurs when the irrigation water accumulated in the soil evaporates, leaving behind salts and minerals. What are the effects of salinization on the irrigated land ?

Salinization occurs when irrigation water evaporates, leaving behind salts like sodium, calcium, and magnesium [2]. While moderate salinity can sometimes cause flocculation, the long-term accumulation of salts—particularly sodium—leads to soil degradation by destroying soil structure. This process reduces the infiltration and conductance of water, effectively making some soils impermeable. Furthermore, in arid regions, high calcium content can lead to the formation of a 'Kankar' layer in lower horizons, which further restricts water infiltration. Contrary to increasing production, salinization significantly reduces crop yields and can render land uncultivable [3]. While a rising water table can cause salinization through capillary action [2], the salinization process itself is characterized by the physical and chemical alteration of the soil profile, leading to reduced porosity and permeability rather than filling air spaces with water or raising the water table as a direct effect.

Sources

1. [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 6: Soils > iv) Saline and Alkaline Soils > p. 19
2. [2] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 25: Agriculture > Salinization: r > p. 368
3. [3] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 25: Agriculture > Saline soils > p. 367