
Globally, about 10% of land is affected by waterlogging and over 6% by salinity, reducing soil health and crop productivity. Although conventional drainage systems work effectively, they are expensive and produce effluents that are difficult to handle. Biodrainage offers a sustainable alternative by using deep-rooted, fast-growing and high-transpiring plants to remove excess water and salts through evapotranspiration. This approach not only lowers groundwater levels but also enhances nutrient conservation, promotes carbon sequestration, supports biodiversity and improves crop performance, making it a viable strategy for integrating agroforestry into cropping systems and restoring sustainability in affected agricultural systems.