Sustainable Water Resource Management: Issues, Challenges & Solutions

Lakes support biodiversity, provide water for various uses, and serve as recreational sites. However, they face threats from human activities, climate change, and natural processes, leading to water quality degradation. Regular monitoring is essential for ecological and economic sustainability. This study examines the physicochemical properties of Phumnom Lake, Imphal East, Manipur, across the pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon seasons of 2024. Water samples were collected from two sampling zones using standard water quality assessment procedures. Key parameters analysed include temperature ranging from 22.5°C to 30.5°C, pH from 7.05 to 7.48, electrical conductivity from 127.4 to 247.5 µS/cm, and total dissolved solids from 98.9 to 122.2 mg/L. Dissolved oxygen levels ranged from 5.87 to 7.19 mg/L, free carbon dioxide from 5.49 to 7.19 mg/L, and total alkalinity from 135 to 375 mg/L. Total hardness ranged from 65 to 113 mg/L, calcium levels from 12.42 to 19.63 mg/L, and chloride levels ranged from 14.18 to 65.93 mg/L. The findings indicate that most water quality parameters remained within acceptable limits according to WHO and BIS standards. However, total alkalinity slightly exceeded permissible levels, likely due to agricultural runoff from surrounding areas. The lake is providing livelihood for households living near its periphery; degrading the lake can impact the socio-economic status of the people there. To keep the lake from further degradation, regular monitoring and mitigation strategies should be implemented to address potential threats such as nutrient enrichment and pollution. Effective management practices will help maintain ecological balance, ensure the long-term health of Phumnom Lake, and support both its aquatic ecosystem and the surrounding communities.