Excessive withdrawal of groundwater for irrigation can lead to:

The correct answer is: All of the above.

Excessive withdrawal of groundwater for irrigation can lead to a number of problems, including:

• Water table depletion: When groundwater is withdrawn faster than it can be replenished, the water table will drop. This can lead to a number of problems, including:
  • Reduced water availability for other uses, such as drinking water, industry, and ecosystems.
  • Increased pumping costs, as well as the risk of saltwater intrusion into freshwater aquifers.
  • Land subsidence, as the weight of the overlying soil is no longer supported by the water table.
• Soil salinization: When groundwater is used for irrigation, it can bring salts to the surface. Over time, these salts can build up in the soil, making it difficult for plants to grow.
• Land subsidence: When groundwater is withdrawn, the weight of the overlying soil is no longer supported by the water table. This can cause the land to subside, or sink. Land subsidence can damage infrastructure, such as roads and buildings, and can also lead to flooding.

It is important to manage groundwater resources carefully to avoid these problems. This includes using groundwater wisely, and replenishing aquifers when possible.