S. Leo Arokiaraj, A. Arokiyaraj, K. Ramesh and M. Rajinikanth
Abstract
During 2004 Tsunami in Tharangambadi taluk, five thousand acres of farmland were affected by sea water. Now, sea water has suddenly, entered the farmland and affected agricultural lands up to six kilometers away, causing drinking water problem and affecting agricultural production. Especially, crops like paddy and groundnut are mostly cultivated in the coastal villages of Tharangambadi taluk. The purpose of this exploration is to study the groundwater quality in the coastal villages affected by sea water intrusion and provides recommendations to the people based on that. On that same time, bore well water used for irrigation that should be essential in crop productivity. This present research work assesses the irrigation water for the quality of agriculture land in coastal area of Tharangambadi taluk of Mayiladuthurai district in Tamil Nadu and the influence of basic physico-chemical parameters on soil fertility. The water quality index SAR, RSC, Geo-chemical types, classification, suitability of water for irrigation purpose. A total Number of thirty six borewell irrigation water samples were collected, which covers twelve revenue villages in Tharangambadi taluk by collecting 3 samples from each Revenue Village. Irrigation water samples are collected from the sea water affected agriculture bore wells, there is a clean plastic can of one liter. The plastic cans are tagged individually with sufficient information. The physico - chemical parameters such as pH, EC, TDS, Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, SO42-, Cl-, CO32-, HCO3-, and Geo chemical types are determined by standard methods and by using standard instruments. Based on the results, remedial measures are suggested to improve the quality of irrigation water and crop productivity. The proposed work is not only very essential for crop production but also to maintain soil fertility, to maintaining hazardous free environment and improves the quality of life and economy of farmers.