Addressing salinity challenges: A comprehensive analysis of saline water and salt-tolerant soil for sustainable crop production in UC Tando Qaiser, Sindh, Pakistan

Muhammad Ahmed Madani Panhwar 1, Naseer Ahmed Abbasi 1, *, Noor Hussain Asghar Ali 2, Bilawal Abbasi 1 and Imran Khan Vighio 2

1 Department of Land and Water Management, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, 70060, Pakistan.
2 Department of Farm Structures, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, 70060, Pakistan.
 
Research Article
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024, 11(01), 1011–1021.
Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2024.11.1.0158
Publication history: 
Received on 21 December 2023; revised on 27 January 2024; accepted on 30 January 2024
 
Abstract: 
This study focuses on the physico-chemical characteristics of soils in UC Tando Qaiser, District Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan, irrigated by tube well water. The soil samples were collected at depths of 0-20, 20-40, and 40-60 cm, and their particle size distribution, organic matter content, pH, and salinity were analyzed. Results indicate that the soils are heavy in texture, likely influenced by the parent material deposited by the Indus River. Organic matter content was found to be low, possibly due to the absence of farmyard manure and limited cultivation of green manure crops. The majority of soils exhibit a slightly to medium alkaline reaction, characteristic of calcareous soils with high Ca2+, Mg2+, and K+ content. Slightly-saline soils were observed, emphasizing the need for soil salinity management. Tube well water analysis revealed variations in electrical conductivity, with some samples exceeding permissible limits. Recommendations include strategies to enhance organic matter, mitigate soil salinity, and implement regular monitoring of tube well water quality for sustainable agriculture in the region.
 
Keywords: 
Soil analysis; Groundwater quality; Salinity; Soil fertility
 
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