Subject: Indian Geography

The increasing urbanization and population growth have led to extensive reclamation of water bodies for urban development, causing significant environmental implications that threaten both ecological balance and human wellbeing.

Environmental Implications

Hydrological Impact

• Disruption of natural water cycle leading to reduced groundwater recharge and altered surface water flow patterns.
• Increased risk of urban flooding due to loss of natural water retention areas (e.g., Chennai floods 2015 where encroachment of lakes and wetlands amplified the disaster).
• Reduction in the natural drainage capacity of urban areas, causing waterlogging during monsoons.

Ecological Consequences

• Loss of aquatic biodiversity and destruction of natural habitats for various species.
• Disruption of migratory bird patterns and breeding grounds.
• Deterioration of water quality due to increased sedimentation and pollution.
• Impact on local microclimate regulation capabilities of water bodies.

Socio-Environmental Effects

• Decrease in natural water purification systems leading to increased water treatment costs.
• Loss of urban heat island mitigation potential of water bodies.
• Reduction in recreational spaces and environmental education opportunities.
• Impact on traditional livelihood systems dependent on water bodies.

Successful Restoration Examples

• Sembakkam Lake in Chennai: Eco-restoration through The Nature Conservancy-India demonstrating successful bioremediation.
• Osho Teerth Park in Pune: Transformation of polluted stream through community involvement.
• Hebbagodi Lake in Bengaluru: Rejuvenation using innovative bioremediation techniques.
• HYDRAA program in Hyderabad: Reclamation of 119 acres of encroached water bodies to prevent urban flooding.

The implementation of programs like Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Wetlands Conservation and Management Rules, 2017 along with successful restoration models like Sembakkam Lake demonstrate that with proper planning and community involvement, urban water bodies can be preserved while ensuring sustainable urban development.