Sustainable Management of Waterlogged Areas Through a Biodrainage and Microbial Agro-ecosystem

Abstract

Irrigation potential has been increased in recent years to achieve greater and sustained yield of agricultural products. The introduction of canal irrigation has caused a rise in the ground water table leading to waterlogging and secondary salinization. Management of this high water table is a major challenge globally as well as in India. Globally, about one-third of irrigated land is presently facing the threat of waterlogging and associated soil salinization. Approximately 4,981.43 square kilometers in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India are suffering from waterlogging and soil salinization, resulting in reduced agricultural productivity. The ability of vegetation with prolific transpiration characteristics may be utilized to reduce the water table markedly, combating this problem in a less expensive and more environmentally friendly manner. This drainage of excess of ground water through vegetation is termed biodrainage and appears promising for the management of a high water table and resultant soil salinity problems. This biodrainage technology may be more efficient in combination with specific beneficial microbes with pH-reducing properties allowing for the amelioration of soil characteristics. The present review discusses the application of biodrainage vegetation in combination with beneficial microbes for the sustainable management of waterlogged/high ground water table area.