Author(s): Aman Ghutke
Email (s): asutra.bliss@gmail.com
Institution or organization of origin: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad (MS), India
Country: India
Abstract
Jayakwadi dam on River Godavari in Paithan taluka, Aurangabad district was constructed in 1976. It has an earthen wall of 10.2 kilometers. Due to this dam, a large water body created with submergence of 35,000 hectares is named as Nathsagar reservoir. The wetland falling under dry climatic conditions of Marathwada region, its water is the only source for domestic, agricultural and industrial uses to Aurangabad city and nearby villages. The wetland formed by Nathsagar reservoir supports the habitats for migratory and native birds; upon which its declaration as a Ramsar site was also demanded but is yet to be acclaimed. Moreover, an area of “Eco sensitive zone” is marked as a conservation measure. Nine sampling sites were selected for the qualitative study of Nathsagar reservoir water which showed that it is polluted due to anthropogenic activities. Along with it, the results of soil analysis reflected its poor condition. The questionnaires were made to fill up by farmers to get more analytical information in this perspective. Anthropogenic activities like deforestation, cattle grazing and farming in and around the Wetland area of the Nathsagar reservoir have led to the eutrophic condition of the lake during the recent years. For self-reliance of Nathsagar wetland through World Lake Vision, there is a need to strengthen community-wetland linkages by opting conservation strategies, livelihood development, stakeholders’ awareness, legal framework, scientific approach to conserve biodiversity, following guidelines using existing regional and global treaties, conventions and protocols to coordinate and implement the World Lake Vision.