Explain with an example of how mining and over irrigation are responsible for land degradation.

Human activities are the major cause of land degradation. Presently, the area of degraded land in India spreads to 130 million hectares.

1. Over-irrigation leads to waterlogging which in turn increases the alkalinity and salinity of the soil. This leads to soil degradation. Over-irrigation is a major problem in states of Haryana, Punjab and Western Uttar Pradesh.

2. Mining processes like limestone grinding produce dust in huge amount. This reduces the water infiltration in the soil. It happens in areas around the cement industry and ceramic industry.