Geochemical Characterization of Saffron Growing Karewa Soils of Kashmir Valley, Western Himalaya (WH), India

Agriculture serves as a basis of socio-economic development and ecosystem stability across Himalaya. However, significant modifications in the geochemical composition of agricultural soils, driven by climate change and anthropogenic activities, have considerably impacted the agricultural output in the region. Kashmir Valley stands out as one of the major global saffron producer (Crocus sativus L.), with an average production of 11–12 tonnes/year cultivated in soils with specific chemical characteristics vulnerable to changing conditions. In this study, soil samples were collected from saffron-growing areas to evaluate their geochemical properties and understand the sources of major and trace elemental constituents. The samples exhibited spatial variations in pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), and heavy metals. Alkaline pH at Khrew, Hafroo and Samboora were attributed to the accumulation of industrial effect, while circum-neutral pH at Meej, Ladoo, Konibal and Shaar indicated impact of organic matter (OM) decomposition. Elevated EC at certain sites is associated to leaching of Ca, Mg, and K from anthropogenic sources. Lower levels of OC and OM near industrial areas were attributed to dust accumulation. Nitrogen availability varied across sites, with lower levels in areas affected by heavy metal accumulation. Spatial variations in cations, particularly Ca and Na, reflected diverse soil compositions. Heavy metal concentration showed significant spatial variability, with higher levels in areas influenced by industrial activities. Pollution indices indicated moderate to severe contamination in saffron soils, primarily due to anthropogenic inputs corroborated by Enrichment factor analysis. Geochemical normalization and quantification of contamination also exhibited anthropogenic sources for elements such as arsenic (As) and chromium (Cr). This study underscores the direct threat posed by industrial pollution and heavy metal contamination not only to saffron cultivation but also to other crops in the region. It also seeks to unravel the underlying challenges impeding crop cultivation and consequently, the economic strength of the region.