Impact of Water and Soil Salinity on Coastal Agriculture in Bangladesh: Insights and Mitigation Strategies
Md. Anisul Kabir, Md. Kamrul Hossain, Md. Anik Hossain, Mohammad Omar Faruk Molla, Most. Suria Khatun, Mohammad Abu Hena Mostofa Jamal
Abstract
Salinity intrusion is one of the major problems in coastal regions in Bangladesh which affects crop production and livelihood. This study examines the impact of salinity intrusion from the Pasur River on soil quality and agricultural productivity in the coastal region of Bangladesh. For this study, both water and soil collections and field surveys were carried out in seven unions that are directly impacted by the river in Dacope and Mongla Upazilas. Physicochemical analyses of water and soil samples revealed significant variations in salinity levels, with higher concentrations observed in southern regions’ spatial distribution. A strong positive relationship between water and soil salinity indicates a direct influence of river salinity on soil quality from the Pearson correlation analysis. Survey data from 240 respondents, predominantly farmers, corroborated these results, with widespread recognition of salinity’s detrimental effects on crop yields, especially rice. So, smaller farms focus on vegetables, medium on rice, and larger ones on high-value crops like watermelon. Mitigation strategies such as freshwater irrigation, drainage systems, and salt-tolerant crop cultivation were identified as potential remedies. Additionally, experts suggested implementing sluice gates to control saltwater intrusion from tributary rivers like Chila Khal. These results emphasize the immediate requirement for proactive actions to reduce the negative effects of salt-induced soil degradation and ensure sustainable agricultural practices in the vulnerable region.