Experimental Study on Infiltration Pattern in the Soil of Junagadh (Gujarat-India)

Abstract

Infiltration plays a pivotal role in both irrigated and rainfed agriculture, serving as a fundamental component of efficient environmental planning systems. These studies sought to model infiltration rate (IR) and assess its spatial variability within Junagadh Taluka, Gujarat, India. Employing a double-ring infiltrometer, field measurements were conducted across 24 blocks, encompassing a diverse range of soil types. The study observations revealed varying infiltration rates among villages, with rates exceeding 4.82 cm/h indicating permeable soils, while rates below 1.2 cm/h suggested compacted soils. Initial infiltration rates were uniformly high across all blocks but demonstrated a gradual decrease with successive readings. Furthermore, forested areas exhibited higher infiltration rates compared to urban and grassland regions. These findings underscore the importance of understanding infiltration dynamics for effective water management and environmental planning. A detailed information Table was developed, depicting infiltration rates across the 24 blocks, thereby providing valuable insights for decision-makers involved in hydrological processes, land-use planning, and water resource management. This study enhances the comprehension of soil-water interactions and offers practical implications for the region's sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation efforts.