Application of soil resistivity meter in site suitability analysis for litchi cultivation as a land management tool

Abstract

The present study investigates the role of soil resistivity in determining site suitability for litchi (Litchi chinensis) cultivation in the Pathankot district of Punjab. The Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) method, using a Schlumberger array, was employed across nine litchi orchards located in different geographical zones of the district. Soil resistivity data were recorded up to a depth of 100 meters and analyzed to characterize subsurface lithology. The results revealed significant variations in soil resistivity, indicating differences in lithological composition such as clay, sand, boulders, and rock. The central zones exhibited more homogeneous subsoil profiles with thick clay layers, offering favorable conditions for litchi root development and consistent groundwater availability. In contrast, the northern hilly and southern lowlying regions displayed heterogeneous formations with high-resistivity zones containing rocks and boulders, indicating poor water retention and limited root penetration. These findings were crossvalidated with well log data from the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and used to create a 3D lithological model of the district. The study concludes that central Pathankot, with its uniform subsurface characteristics and higher soil moisture retention, is most suitable for litchi cultivation. Thus, soil resistivity proves to be an effective, non-invasive tool for agricultural land evaluation, irrigation planning, and sustainable land management.