Impact of Salinity on Food Security in Southwest Coastal Bangladesh: Strategies for Adaptation Methods

Salinity intrusion is a major environmental threat in coastal Bangladesh, severely affecting food security and rural livelihoods. This study, conducted in four unions of Satkhira district—three saline-prone (Atulia, Burigoalini, Gabura) and one non-saline (Helatala)—assessed the socioeconomic status of farmers, the impacts of salinity on agriculture, and the adaptation strategies adopted. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining 120 household surveys, 12 key informant interviews, and 8 focus group discussions supported by salinity testing and field observations. Quantitative data were processed in Microsoft Excel using frequency tables, percentages, and graphs, while qualitative findings were analyzed thematically. Results showed clear socioeconomic contrasts between saline and non-saline areas. Male-headed households dominated across all unions (over 80%), though female participation was higher in Helatala (43.33%). Education levels were markedly higher in Helatala, where 63.33% of respondents had completed secondary or higher education, compared to only 26.67% in Burigoalini. Income analysis revealed that 60% of Helatala households earned above BDT 200,000 annually, while only 20% in Atulia and Burigoalini reached this level. Salinity impacts were most severe in Gabura and Burigoalini, where 50% of respondents reported crop and vegetable damage and 40% reported irrigation water scarcity. Waterlogging affected 30% of respondents in Gabura, further intensifying yield losses. Adaptation analysis indicated that salinity-tolerant crop varieties (86.67%) and adjusting planting time (90% in Gabura, 66.67% in Burigoalini) were the most widely adopted techniques. Crop diversification was practiced occasionally by 73–93% of respondents, while methods such as AWD, mini ponds, and zero tillage were adopted by 10–25%. Resource-intensive practices like raised pits, floating seed beds, and dike culture showed limited use, except in Helatala, where 45% practiced dike culture regularly. The study concludes that although awareness of adaptive techniques is widespread, consistent adoption remains limited by financial, technical, and institutional barriers. Strengthened extension services and climate-smart interventions are essential to enhance agricultural resilience in salinity-affected coastal regions.