Estimating Soil Water Susceptibility to Salinization in the Mekong River Delta Using a Modified DRASTIC Model

Saltwater intrusion risk assessment is a foundational step for preventing and controlling salinization in coastal regions. The Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD) highly affected by drought threats, especially severe under the impacts of global climate change rapid development an upstream hydropower dam system. This study aimed to apply modified DRASTIC model, which combines generic model with hydrological anthropogenic factors (i.e., river catchment land use), examine seawater vulnerability soil-water-bearing layer Ben Tre province, located VMD. One hundred fifty hand-auger samples total dissolved solids (TDS) measurements, one reflected salinity parameters, were used validate results obtained both models. spatial analysis tools ArcGIS software Kriging data classification tools) interpolate, classify, map input susceptibility area. show that index values from models 36–128 55–163, respectively. vulnerable indices increased inland districts areas. Ba Tri Binh Dai recorded as having very high salinization, while Chau Thanh Cho Lach at low level. From comparative two models, it obvious inclusion or canal network agricultural practices enables better performance than model. enhancement explained significant impact activities on soil water content. study’s can be scientific implications planners decision-makers land-use management practices.