Patna: Dr. Abhinav Sahay, Assistant Professor at the Department of Environment, Amity University, Patna, delivered a presentation on the topic “Reviving Springs in Tehri Garhwal in the Himalayas through Integrated Spring-shed Water Management” during a monthly lecture series hosted by the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) on Wednesday.
Addressing the audience in a hybrid mode, Dr. Sahay emphasized the integration of water management strategies into the Tehri Garhwal region of the Himalayan Terai. He meticulously outlined the efforts undertaken by various organizations to manage water resources effectively. Dr. Sahay underscored the critical issue of the growing global population vis-à-vis the availability of potable water, particularly in hilly regions, where access to clean water remains a challenge. He stressed the importance of storing available water to fulfill the basic needs of life in such areas.
Describing the challenges faced by Tehri Garhwal, Dr. Sahay pointed out that human activities have obstructed the natural flow of water in springs, leading to the depletion of water resources. Deforestation has exacerbated this issue, hindering the groundwater recharge process and consequently lowering the water table. Moreover, the burgeoning settlements in the Himalayan regions contribute to pollution, further deteriorating the quality of water in these springs and posing risks to human health due to the presence of pathogens and pollutants.
Dr. Sahay also shed light on the adverse effects of chemical usage in modern agriculture on the quality of spring water, highlighting an increase in biological oxygen demand (BOD) in certain samples, indicating low oxygen availability and organic contamination.
Proposing measures for conserving these springs, Dr. Sahay advocated for water harvesting techniques, recharge pit construction, and extensive afforestation efforts. He commended the work of NGOs operating in the Himalayan region for their commendable efforts in this regard.
During the event, Dr. D.K. Shukla, Chairman of the BSPCB, applauded Bihar’s leading role in watershed development within the country, citing the state’s ongoing program covering approximately 1.85 lakh hectares of forest area. This initiative has also garnered support from the Government of India over time.
Spring shed development forms an integral part of these efforts, aiming to mitigate pollution from sources such as inadequate sewage systems, which often result in the contamination of spring water with septic tank effluents.
At the onset of the lecture, Dr. Arun Kumar, Analyst at the BSPCB, introduced Dr. Sahay, while Dr. Naveen Kumar, a senior scientist at the board, extended a vote of thanks, emphasizing the significance of water harvesting in addressing these pressing environmental concerns.
The lecture series serves as a platform for experts and stakeholders to discuss and address environmental challenges.
