Large Scale Reclamation of waterlogged saline soils in chambal command area, Rajasthan

The Rajasthan Agricultural Drainage Research (RAJAD) Project aided by Canadian International Development Agency was introduced in 1992 to combat the problems of salinity and waterlogging in the Chambal Command Area (CCA), using the horizontal subsurface drainage (SSD) technology. A significant reduction in the crop yield in saline and waterlogged land compared to non-saline and non-waterlogged land in the Chambal Command Area was found. Sub Surface drainage was mainly provided to control water table depth at a pre-determined level; to allow enhanced root development of crops; to leach excess salts and prevent salt accumulation within the root zone at levels higher than the tolerance level of crops; and to provide enhanced soil trafficability during growing season.

Total 14, 925 ha of SSD was installed in Chambal Command Area, using local equipment as well as imported drain laying equipment, and following the design criteria established on the basis of the test sites. Sub Surface Drainage (SSD) System installed in Chambal Command Area was monitored & has been found to have major positive impacts in alleviating soil salinity and waterlogging. The technology has been found cost effective.