Gully Erosion in India

March 11, 2025

Gully erosion is affecting 77 districts across India. This issue is primarily concentrated in eastern and southern India. The findings align with the United Nations’ agenda to combat land degradation by 2030. As global land degradation affects 20 to 40 per cent of the world’s areas, India faces a critical challenge.

What is Gully Erosion?

Gully erosion is defined as the removal of soil along drainage lines by surface water runoff. It leads to the formation of deep channels, known as gullies, which can severely impact land productivity. The UN Convention to Combat Desertification defines land degradation as a loss of biological or economic productivity. In India, gully erosion is a major contributor to this phenomenon.

Impact

Gully erosion affects agricultural productivity. It leads to water stress and drought conditions. In severe cases, it can cause entire villages to migrate. The report indicates that the badlands formed by gully erosion hinder farming and contribute to ecological imbalances.

Geographic Distribution

The report identifies that eastern India, particularly Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, suffers the most from gully erosion. Western India has more badlands, but the report marks that eastern gully features pose a greater risk to land degradation neutrality.

Mapping and Management Initiatives

The study aims to create a detailed spatial inventory of gully erosion using high-resolution satellite imagery. This mapping will help evaluate the current status of gully management. The goal is to identify districts that require immediate rehabilitative interventions.

Policy Recommendations

Experts suggest that India needs a clear land management policy that distinguishes between badlands and gully systems. Such a policy should address their unique impacts on society and the environment. Effective management strategies are essential to mitigate the effects of gully erosion.

Future Projections

The report warns that the rates of gully erosion are expected to increase due to climate change. Increased rainfall intensity will exacerbate the issue. Therefore, timely interventions and comprehensive management plans are crucial for sustainable land use.

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