Question

Explain with specific examples of regions affected, the dangers and problems of over-watering in India.

Answer 1

1. Waterlogging: Continuous irrigation without proper drainage leads to the accumulation of water in the root zone, depriving roots of oxygen.
   • Example: Punjab and Haryana – Excessive use of canal and tube-well irrigation in the Green Revolution belt has led to severe waterlogging, particularly in low-lying agricultural fields.
2. Soil Salinity and Alkalinity: Over-watering causes capillary action to bring salts to the surface, especially in arid and semi-arid regions.
   • Example: Western Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan – Regions with high evaporation rates have seen increased soil salinity due to unregulated irrigation, affecting crops like sugarcane and wheat.
3. Declining Groundwater Levels: Over-irrigation through tube-wells depletes underground aquifers faster than they can be recharged.
   • Example: Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra – Overuse of groundwater for crops like rice and sugarcane has led to critically low water tables, particularly during drought years.
4. Wastage of Water Resources: Flood irrigation and poorly managed water systems lead to excessive water loss through runoff and evaporation.
   • Example: Ganga-Yamuna Doab (U.P.) – Traditional flood irrigation methods in this region have contributed to inefficient water usage and seasonal shortages.