Planning interventions in the watershed for the conservation of a lake

Abstract

In recent years, the degradation of freshwater ecosystems has become a major concern worldwide. Urban water bodies play a vital role in providing ecosystem services to society and nature. However, it is most impacted by excessive pollution, increasing infrastructural development, and changes in land use affect it the most. In various cases, it was found that climatic variations are not only affecting the riverine biodiversity but also the humans residing near the catchment area of the lake. Nowadays, wetlands are being recognized as “wastelands” serving as grounds for a variety of waste materials (Khan et al., 2004; Bano et al., 2018). So, the first step for reversing this trend is to create and add value to the urban waterbody. The Sirpur Lake in Indore, India, is one such freshwater ecosystem that is under threat due to various anthropogenic activities in its watershed. This thesis aims to develop a framework for planning interventions in the watershed for the conservation of Sirpur Lake. This study adopts a case study approach and uses both qualitative and quantitative methods to collect data. The data collected includes land use patterns, hydrological data, and socioeconomic information from the watershed of Sirpur Lake. The data is then analyzed to identify the major factors contributing to the degradation of the lake and to suggest interventions to mitigate them. The study finds that the major factors contributing to the degradation of Sirpur Lake are urbanization, agriculture, and industrial activities in the watershed. The increased urbanization in the area has led to the conversion of natural areas into built-up spaces, which has resulted in a decrease in the natural infiltration of rainwater into the ground. This, in turn, has caused an increase in surface runoff, leading to erosion and sedimentation in the lake. Agricultural activities in the watershed have also contributed to the degradation of the lake, as the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has led to the contamination of the lake's water. Finally, residential colonies in the watershed have resulted in the discharge of effluents into the lake, which has led to a decrease in water quality. To mitigate the factors contributing to the degradation of Sirpur Lake, the study suggests various interventions. One such intervention is the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming and the use of natural vi fertilizers and pesticides. The study also proposes the zoning regulation for the development around the lake through the implementation of stricter laws and regulations. Additionally, the creation of green buffers in urban areas can help reduce surface runoff and improve infiltration, thus reducing erosion and sedimentation in the lake. The study also emphasizes the importance of involving the local community in conservation efforts and proposes a participatory approach to the planning and implementation of interventions. This thesis makes a significant contribution to the field of watershed management and conservation by providing a framework for planning interventions in the watershed for the conservation of freshwater ecosystems. The findings of this study can be applied to other freshwater ecosystems facing similar threats in India and elsewhere. It is essential to take a holistic approach to conservation efforts that involve the participation of local communities and stakeholders to ensure long-term sustainability