Characterisation of Salt-Affected Soils in Central Alluvial Region of Uttar Pradesh

Salt-affected soils of central alluvial region of Uttar Pradesh, suffering badly from alkalinity hazard, showed marked difference in their physicochemical characteristics. In alkalinization, these soils reveal the most advanced stage of deterioration with very poor physical conditions. Sodium constitutes the majority of total cations in saturation extract. The nature and causes of alkalinity vary from place to place. Accumulation of salts through runoff water from the adjoining area, impeded drainage due to poor hydraulic conductivity and very high sodium content, fluctuating water table caused by canals flowing near these fields and consequently capillary rise of water resulting in accumulation of alkali salts on the surface during summer, are some of the contributory factors to the development of salt-affected soils.