Socio-economic Impact Assessment of Salinity Prevention Structure-Bardasagar Scheme in Porbandar District of Gujarat, India

Abstract

India's vast coastline, spanning 7,516 kilometers, faces a critical challenge of seawater intrusion, resulting in salinity issues that profoundly affect agriculture, water resources, and socio-economic well-being. Among the coastal states, Gujarat, with its extensive 1,600-kilometer coastline, bears a significant burden of this phenomenon. The Barda Sagar Prevention Scheme aims to mitigate these effects by managing water resources effectively, thereby reducing salinity impact in the Porbandar area of Gujarat and ensuring the well-being of local communities. The Barda Sagar Scheme, situated in Rinavada village within Porbandar taluka of Gujarat, stands as a vital initiative aimed at addressing these challenges. This study meticulously evaluates the scheme's impact on agriculture, livestock, and rural livelihoods in both upstream and downstream villages. The findings underscore the scheme's substantial positive influence on various facets of rural life. Significant shifts in cropping patterns and agricultural land usage, accompanied by notable increases in crop yields, particularly in principal crops like groundnut and cumin, demonstrate the scheme's efficacy in enhancing agricultural productivity. Moreover, changes in livestock population, production, and feeding practices suggest potential improvements in livestock management and productivity, despite some fluctuations in livestock populations. Access to safe drinking water, a fundamental aspect of rural livelihoods, has witnessed considerable improvement due to the scheme's implementation. Increased reliance on the Narmada pipeline and enhanced access to potable water across surveyed villages reflect positive strides in water security and overall living standards. However, the study also identifies various challenges and factors influencing the observed changes. Soil degradation, pest incidence, and the need for sustainable water management strategies emerge as notable challenges that require ongoing attention and intervention. While positive drivers such as increased rainfall and improved market access have facilitated progress, continued monitoring, and adaptive management remain imperative for ensuring the scheme's long-term sustainability and efficacy.