Bangar soil is older alluvial soil found in the upper reaches of river valleys, characterized by lower fertility and the presence of kankar nodules.
Characteristics of Bangar Soil
Bangar soil represents a distinct type of alluvial soil found in India. Key characteristics include:
- Old Alluvial Soil: Bangar soil is formed from older alluvium, meaning it has been deposited longer ago compared to Khadar soil (new alluvial soil).
- Location: It is typically found in the upper terraces and further away from river channels. These areas are less prone to flooding.
- Lower Fertility: Compared to Khadar soil, Bangar soil is generally less fertile. This is due to the leaching of minerals over time and a coarser texture.
- Kankar Nodules: Bangar soil is characterized by the presence of kankar nodules, which are concretions of calcium carbonate. These nodules reduce the soil's porosity and water retention capacity.
- Texture: Bangar soil tends to be more sandy and less fine-grained compared to Khadar soil.
Comparison with Khadar Soil
| Feature | Bangar Soil | Khadar Soil |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Old Alluvial Soil | New Alluvial Soil |
| Location | Upper Terraces, away from rivers | Near River Channels, floodplains |
| Fertility | Lower | Higher |
| Kankar Nodules | Present | Absent or fewer |
| Texture | Sandy, Coarse | Fine, Silty |
Significance
While Bangar soil is less fertile than Khadar soil, it is still agriculturally important in many regions. Farmers often use fertilizers and irrigation techniques to improve its productivity. The presence of kankar can also be beneficial in some construction applications.
