BATHINDA, Sept. 10 -- A sharp rise in the subsurface saline water table, triggered by heavy rains, is wreaking havoc on Punjab's horticulture belt in Abohar of Fazilka district. Experts warn that the ongoing surge in groundwater levels has submerged kinnow orchards, with rainwater stagnating in the fields for over a month, leading to severe damage to crops.

Farmers report a significant rise in the groundwater table, which has surged from around 6-7 feet to 2 feet in some areas due to recent rainfall. This has led to flooding in orchards, drowning tree roots and threatening the future of the crops.

Veteran orchardist Arvind Setia said that the groundwater in Abohar and Muktsar is saline, rendering it unsuitable for irrigation or human co...