Integrated approach for characterization and evaluating factors affecting water resources in parts of Tawi river watershed in Jammu urban complex district Jammu J and K India

Abstract

Considering the finite volume of freshwater resources, managing its quality and quantity in a sustainable manner is one of the greatest challenges posed by complex global changes. This work strives to predict the combined effect of urbanization and anthropogenic activities on the water quality of River Tawi considering its criticalities and develop a proactive plan for policymakers working in the water sector. Climate change, forest cover loss, expansion and intensification of agriculture, growing settlement and population, urbanization, growing tourism, water pollution and associated water borne diseases are among the conspicuous challenges in modifying the hydrological regime of a river. River Tawi being a major river in the Jammu region is an important source of water for different uses mainly for domestic, industrial, agricultural and recreational purposes. River Tawi experiences declining flow in the dry season and increasing flow in the wet season, while the demand of water to support the livelihoods is growing exponentially. Therefore, presenting a comprehensive spatio-temporal status of river water quality will be a valuable asset to guide and implement better management policies within the governance structure. To effectively and efficiently manage the water resources, quantitative assessment of water balance component using population growth model has been worked out. Therefore an attempt has been made to follow a holistic approach in characterization and evaluating factors that affect water resources in parts of the Tawi River watershed in the Jammu Urban Complex. newline