Which one of the following is the main cause of land degradation in Punjab?
(a) Intensive cultivation
(b) Deforestation
(c) Over irrigation
(d) Overgrazing
Answer:
(c) Over-irrigation
Explanation:
In Punjab, over-irrigation is the leading cause of land degradation due to the following reasons:
- Waterlogging: Excessive irrigation causes water to accumulate in the soil, reducing air circulation and fertility.
- Salinization: Continuous irrigation leads to salt accumulation on the surface, making the soil unproductive.
- Decline in Soil Quality: Overuse of water washes away essential nutrients, weakening soil health.
- Groundwater Depletion: Excessive dependence on groundwater for irrigation lowers water table levels.
- Soil Erosion: Waterlogged soil becomes weak and more prone to erosion, further degrading its quality.
Conclusion:
Though irrigation is crucial for farming, its overuse in Punjab has led to serious environmental problems, reducing agricultural productivity. Sustainable water management is necessary to prevent further degradation. 🌱💧