Seawater intrusion in the coastal aquifers is a major concern in India. What are the causes of seawater intrusion and the remedial measures to combat this hazard?
Seawater intrusion is the contamination of freshwater coastal aquifers by saltwater. In India, the primary cause is the over-extraction of groundwater. When freshwater is pumped out faster than it is naturally replenished, groundwater levels drop, allowing denser seawater to push inland and mix with the freshwater supply. This problem is further exacerbated by rising sea levels due to climate change and coastal erosion.
Remedial measures to combat this hazard focus on two main strategies. The first is managing demand by reducing groundwater extraction through efficient irrigation practices and promoting the use of recycled water. The second is augmenting the freshwater supply to create a hydraulic barrier against the sea. This can be achieved by constructing recharge shafts, check dams, and injection wells to replenish the aquifer with rainwater. Protecting and restoring coastal ecosystems like mangroves also provides a natural defense against seawater ingress.
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Important Questions from GS3
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What were the factors responsible for the successful implementation of land reforms in some parts of the country? Elaborate.
