The lakes of the Nainital region are ecologically fragile, and due to rapid urbanization in the catchment, the lakes experience an increase in nutrient loading and rapid deterioration of water quality. The present work was done to assess the effectiveness of the conservation works done in the lakes of Nainital, Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal. The various aspects that were kept in mind during the study were the water quality assessment, solid waste management practices, shoreline development, sewage works, public participation. Various physico- chemical parameters were determined during the water quality assessment like pH, temperature, DO, BOD,COD, turbidity, TDS, and metals namely Copper, Iron, Nitrate, and Chromium. These parameters were compared with the trends of the physico-chemical parameters in the recent years. A water quality index was prepared on the basis of these parameters to make an evaluation of the health of the lakes. Noteworthy improvement in the dissolved oxygen concentrations of the lakes were an evidence of the fact that significant work has been done regarding the conservation of the lakes. All the shortcomings and success regarding the conservation works done in the area have been studied and a performance evaluation chart was prepared on this basis. The results of the study suggested that effective works have been done in the area but this needs to be continued in the future too.
Table of Contents
- INTRODUCTION
- STUDY AREA
- MATERIALS AND METHODS
- WATER QUALITY SAMPLING
- RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Objectives and Key Themes
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of conservation efforts implemented in the lakes of the Nainital region in India. The conservation efforts focused on improving water quality, managing solid waste, developing shorelines, upgrading sewage systems, and engaging the public.
- Water quality assessment of Nainital, Bhimtal, Sattal, and Naukuchiatal lakes.
- Evaluation of conservation measures implemented in the lakes.
- Analysis of physico-chemical parameters and metal concentrations in the lake water.
- Assessment of the impact of urbanization and pollution on lake ecosystems.
- Importance of public participation and stakeholder engagement in lake conservation.
Chapter Summaries
- Introduction: This section provides an overview of lakes as a component of Earth's surface water and the importance of conservation programs. It emphasizes the need for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of such programs. The study focuses on the Nainital region, known for its scenic lakes, and the need for assessing the performance of conservation efforts in the area.
- Study Area: This chapter describes the Nainital region, highlighting its geographical features, prominent locations, and the importance of its lakes. It provides details about the four lakes under study: Nainital, Bhimtal, Sattal, and Naukuchiatal. The location and morphometry of the lakes are presented in a table and a figure.
- Materials and Methods: This section outlines the sampling procedures and analytical methods used in the study. It explains how water samples were collected, transported, and analyzed for various physico-chemical parameters and metals. The study involved two stages of sampling, in November 2013 and April 2014, to compare water quality and environmental conditions over time.
- Water Quality Sampling: This subsection details the selection of sampling locations based on their susceptibility to pollution and accessibility. The sampling points are listed in a table, and the rationale for selecting these locations is explained.
- Results and Discussion: This chapter presents the results of the water quality analysis, comparing the physico-chemical parameters and metal concentrations across different sampling points and seasons. The data is presented in tables for each lake, highlighting key findings and discussing their implications for lake health and conservation efforts.
Keywords
The key words and focus topics of this study include: water quality, lake conservation, Nainital region, physico-chemical parameters, metal analysis, performance evaluation, urbanization, pollution, public participation, and sustainable management of lake ecosystems.
- Quote paper
- Prabhakar Shukla (Author), 2014, Performance Evaluation of Conservation Programmes for Lakes of the Nainital Region, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/275593
