“Water Resources Management In Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary And Eco-Sensitive Zone: A Geospatial Approach”

Abstract

Water is essential for preserving ecological balance, supporting human and animal life, as well as for all types of economic and development activities. It is a valuable and in-demand resource, especially in places like Nahargarh Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ), where the Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a prominent feature. Water resource management in Nahargarh wildlife sanctuary and ESZ is crucial for sustaining wildlife and plant species. Proper allocation, conservation, and monitoring of water resources ensure that habitats remain balanced and resilient. Adequate water availability supports diverse ecosystems, promotes plant growth, and ensures the survival of wildlife, fostering a harmonious coexistence between nature and humans. This paper included a background study about Nahargarh ESZ, and based on that, various parameters have been studied as a part of water resources management. This paper contains a study about the existing scenario of waterbodies around Nahargarh wildlife sanctuary and also outlines a study about drainage networks and watersheds especially for Nahargarh ESZ. The natural features of Nahargarh ESZ have been analyzed using GIS (Geographical Information System) techniques. Stream order and stream network, aquifer related data, the Digital Elevation Model (DEM), slope analysis, and identification of wet land areas surrounding major waterbodies-related data in Nahargarh ESZ provided further direction for water management initiatives. The study's role in preserving wildlife and their habitats is substantial, as it identifies optimal water allocation strategies. Moreover, its contribution extends to policy formulation, influencing decisions about water management in environmentally sensitive regions. The Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques employed in the study pave the way for future spatial analyses, collaborative efforts, and informed decision-making in comparable contexts, ultimately ensuring the harmonious coexistence of nature and human activities in the long term.