Sustainable Water Resource Management: Issues, Challenges & Solutions

Seasonal Assessment of Spring Water Quality in Ukhrul Town, Manipur, India Using Water Quality Index

Chuiyapem Shaiza — 2026-03-09

In the hilly regions of the Himalayas, the springs serve as the main source of water that sustains life. For ages, springs have been critical for the societies that have evolved in the region. However, rapid population explosion and urbanisation are threatening the water sources at present. In the Ukhrul town of Manipur, springs are life. However, pollution and deforestation have a serious impact on the water resources, which compromises the quality and quantity. In the present study, the status of the springs that provide water for drinking and other domestic uses to the Ukhrul town was assessed during 2022-2023. For the study, spring water physico-chemical characteristics during post-monsoon and pre-monsoon from 15 sampling locations were assessed, and the Water Quality Index (WQI) was calculated. The WQI values showed a good category for drinking throughout the year for most of the sampling locations. However, the water quality parameters from some of the sampling locations showed high electrical conductivity (404.5±30.52 µS cm^-1), poor dissolved oxygen content (2±0.84 mg L^-1) and high magnesium (30.63±3.98 mg L^-1) concentrations, respectively. The result showed the need for continuous monitoring and treatment of the mountain spring water at present for the sake of the locality’s future.

Sustainable Water Resource Management through the Lens of Nature-Man-Spirit Complex: Insights into the Subak and Ruza Systems

Sanjoy Akoijam — 2026-03-09

Sustainability, sustainable development, sustainable resource use, etc are topics frequently discussed in the world today, owing to several issues like population explosion, resource scarcity and climate change. Throughout the world, different cultures have come up with their own ways of water resource management that have developed over hundreds of years. Such systems are often linked to the spiritual and community lives of the people concerned. Often, water is not viewed as a resource, but rather as a ‘gift’ that has to be shared equitably among the community and with other living beings. Such sustainable practices can be looked at through the lens of the concept of ‘Nature-Man-Spirit Complex’ that was propounded by the famed Indian Anthropologist LP. Vidyarthi. In this age of increasing water scarcity compounded by a growing feeling of individualism, it is pertinent for us to take lessons from traditional water management systems. The main objective for the study was to examine two traditional water resource management systems-the Subak system of Bali, Indonesia and the Ruza/Zabo system of Nagaland, India, through the lens of the ‘Nature-Man-Spirit’ Complex and their relevance in modern discussions concerning sustainability. The main study method was a narrative review of peer-reviewed papers, articles and book chapters from some major academic databases. Searches were made regarding the concept of Nature-Man-Spirit Complex and its applicability in understanding sustainable water resource management, alongside case studies of traditional water management systems from around the world. The Subak system represents a traditional irrigation management practice that significantly contributes to sustainable water resource management on the island of Bali. On the other hand, the Ruza/Zabo farming system is primarily practised by the Chakhesang Naga tribe of Kikruma village in the mountainous Indian state of Nagaland. It involves a holistic approach to land and water management- incorporating water harvesting, animal husbandry and paddy cultivation on terraced fields. The findings indicated that the Nature-Man-Spirit Complex can be effectively linked to sustainable water resource management. It offers a holistic framework that aligns well with sustainable water use by acknowledging that water is not just a resource but part of a larger interconnected system.

Impact of Improper Solid Waste Disposal on the Surface Water Quality

Ch. Raghumani Singh — 2026-03-09

The generation of solid waste has been increasing daily as the population increases. Management of such waste is a great challenge for the urban local bodies. Poor waste management has a serious impact on natural resources. If we consider the specific case of water resources, improper waste disposal leads to the occurrence of different forms of water pollution. The methodology follows desktop searching of existing literature, official documents and other published articles. The desktop search was carried out from December 2024 to March 2025. Many factors influence surface water quality, and one of them is landfills, which are threatening many areas of our environment, particularly in water resources. Solid waste is a source of pathogenic microbial development, and they impact on water, soil and air. As the amount of garbage increases daily, its improper management and disposal system can reach our safer zones, leading to various severe diseases. Illegal, haphazard dumping of waste along water bodies negatively impacts the water quality, and declining water quality endangers aquatic organisms and is unsafe for human consumption and can cause waterborne diseases too. Contaminants, including heavy metals from the leachate of the waste, pollute nearby water bodies. This chapter highlights the major problems of solid waste disposal and its impact on the surface water quality. Improper dumping of solid waste near the water bodies has a negative impact on the water quality. Some findings highlighted the values of pH 5.76 to 8.87, EC ranged from 1252 μS/cm to 1531 μS/cm and turbidity ranged from 1.76 NTU to 6.51 NTU, which are beyond the WHO permissible limit. Frequent waste collection and a proper disposal system can play a huge role in preventing contamination of water bodies.

Wetlands and Urban Growth in India: Balancing Conservation and Development

Yumnam Gyanendra — 2026-03-09

Wetlands are a type of ecosystem considered to be one of the most efficient on Earth that have extremely important ecological, economic, and social advantages. They promote biodiversity, hydrology, floods, recharge groundwater, and serve as carbon sinks in India. Even with these critical roles, wetlands have been devalued and mis-categorised as wasteland in the past, thus being destroyed in large numbers. There are 98 Ramsar Sites in India, which are located in different geographical and climatic regions, including Tamil Nadu, which has the largest number. Nonetheless, the fast process of urbanisation, farming development, pollution, and climate change is deadly to the status of wetlands. These exertions interfere with natural hydrological processes, reduce the quality of water, and result in the loss of biodiversity. Despite the legislative provisions, including Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, and policy efforts, including the National Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP), there are still gaps in implementation. Wetlands remain outside the systems of planning urban and water resources. Proper protection of the law, involvement of the community, and ecosystem management are some of the key components in the settlement of the seeming conflict between development and conservation. Conserving India’s wetlands demands a holistic approach that integrates ecological, socio-economic, and institutional perspectives to ensure these ecosystems continue to support environmental resilience and climate regulation.

Monitoring Irrigational Water Quality Trends: Insights from Kouna Fields in Khangabok, Thoubal District, Manipur, India

Khumallambam Jyotish — 2026-03-09

Schoenoplectus lacustris (L.) Palla, locally called Kouna, is a crucial macrophyte for the handicraft industry in Manipur. The water quality of agricultural fields is a critical determinant of both environmental sustainability and agricultural productivity for the plant. This study evaluates the water quality status of the Kouna fields in Khangabok, Manipur, through a seasonal analysis of physico-chemical parameters. Three Kouna fields were selected in Khangabok and studied to examine the influence of agricultural practices, including the use of fertilisers and other non-point sources of pollution, on water quality. The Irrigation Water Quality Index (IWQI) is tabulated for a single, comprehensive value to assess the suitability of water for irrigation purposes and understand potential risks to crop yields and soil health associated with the water's chemical composition. Results regarding the IWQI, Na% lie within the permissible limit of irrigation water quality for every season. However, the SAR (Sodium Adsorption Ratio) and the Magnesium hazard (MH) of the water show “Severe” and “Unsuitable”, which concludes with an unsuitable water quality for irrigation that can be detrimental to the Kouna cultivation and production in the long run. This research highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches combining agronomy, environmental science, and sustainable agriculture to address the challenges of nutrient management. Further research can explore the phytoremedial capacity of the Kouna plant, which can be examined with a broader scope and parameters in the future.

Water as Nature and Culture: Socio-Economic, Religious and Environmental Dimensions in India

Haobijam Vokendro — 2026-03-09

Water is not just a part of life; it is life itself. Living organisms originated on this planet through water. This very force of nature is what sustains and propagates us. But its relationship with humans is not just about sustenance and resources. Water is an essential part of human culture; it symbolises the divine power in many cultures and religions. Because of its many facets, we need to understand water holistically. This study aims to understand water in its many manifestations and how humans have incorporated this force of nature into their lives. This study used a qualitative and exploratory approach. Secondary data from papers, newspaper articles and reports are used for this study. The study is analysed from the theoretical framework of cultural ecology and interpretive anthropology. The study finds that in extreme cases of floods and droughts, humans adjust the practices of social institutions such as marriage and family. In many cultures, water bodies such as lakes and rivers are revered as sacred places and entities. Many religious practices are associated with such water bodies, which has led to water pollution. The study concludes by stressing the need for a holistic understanding of human interaction with water. Water and pollution management must inculcate the cultural aspect of water.

Rainfall Frequency Analysis Using Probability Distribution Models: A Case Study of Imphal West District, Manipur, India

Samananda Keisham — 2026-03-09

Flood frequency analysis is a crucial step in hydrology for the prediction of flood risks and designing suitable region-specific water management strategies. Selecting the most suitable probability distribution model is essential for accurate flood predictions. GEV is a best-fit model as compared to other distributions due to its flexibility in modelling extreme values. The choice of parameter estimation methods and model selection criteria significantly impacts the identification of the best-fit distribution. The study aimed to analyse the frequency of extreme rainfall events based on precipitation data from 2013 to 2023 for Imphal West District. The district is facing water scarcity issues during the lean season. It is imperative to predict the future rainfall quantiles for sustainable supply and policy inclusion of the water security issues at the district level. Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Anderson-Darling, and Chi-square tests are employed for goodness-of-fit testing (α = 0.05 confidence level), revealing that the Generalised Extreme Value distribution is the best-fit model in all goodness-of-fit tests in terms of ranking, followed by the Log Pearson III model for simulating extreme rainfall events in the district.

Physico-chemical Characteristics and Macrophyte Diversity of Community Ponds in Imphal, Manipur under Anthropogenic and Cultural Pressures

Thokchom Monorama Devi — 2026-03-09

In Manipur (longitude 93°03′E to 94° 78'E and latitude 23°83'N to 25°86'N), India, lentic water bodies have served for food, nutrition and environmental security for centuries. The present study was conducted on four community ponds at Imphal, Manipur, during the pre-monsoon period of 2021. The macrophyte diversity and physico-chemical parameters of water and sediment were analysed. A total of 14 macrophytic plant species were recorded during the study period. Of these, Cyperus pilosus, Ipomoea aquatica, Oenanthe javanica were categorised into Emergent; Lemna, Pistia (free floating); Nelumbo nucifera, Euryale ferox (rooted with floating leaves); Hydrilla verticillata, Utricullaria were exhibited as submerged. Further, the physico-chemical parameters of water and sediments were analysed by following the methods given by APHA (2005). In water quality, the overall concentration of pH value ranges from 6.3 to 7.2; Free carbon dioxide from 5 mg/l to 22mg/l; Dissolved oxygen from 0.4mg/l to 8.5mg/l; Total hardness from 86mg/l to 176mg/l; and Chloride from 22.72 mg/l to 71mg/l. In the chemical parameters of sediments, the pH concentration ranges from 5.1 to 6.5; Total nitrogen from 14% to 25.5%; Calcium from 96.19 mg/g to 228.45mg/g; Magnesium from 21.91mg/g to 131.49mg/g; Chloride from 28.4mg/g to 34.08 mg/g and Phosphorus from 0.012 mg/g to 0.034 mg/g. From the present study, it is found that the value of some important parameters of water, such as free carbon dioxide and dissolved oxygen, are below the permissible value in all four study sites except in site II. The study revealed that there are some cultural stresses which are caused by the community due to their intentional and unintentional activities. The paper advocates for the integrated management of these water bodies by involving the local communities.

Impact of Physico-chemical Parameters on the Rotifer Assemblage in an Irrigation Canal at Phubala, Bishnupur District, Manipur, North East India

Maibam Bimola — 2026-03-09

Biodiversity on the earth consists of a number of distinct biological species which together make a balanced environment. North East India is a place of exceptional biodiversity, harbouring a wide variety of biota. The geographic location of Manipur belongs to two of the world’s hotspot i.e. Eastern Himalayan and Indo-Burmese. As a result of this, the state is endowed with a wide variety of biodiversity. Nowadays, the global environmental crisis is affecting all dimensions of biota. Similarly, the rich biodiversity of the state is also under threat due to various anthropogenic activities. This environmental crisis may lead to multiple forms of destruction, resulting in measurable damage to the environment. This chapter reports the impact of physico-chemical parameters on the rotifer assemblage in an irrigation canal at Phubala, Bishnupur district, Manipur. Rotifers are an important group of zooplankton and act as good indicators of the changes in water quality, as they are strongly affected by environmental conditions and respond quickly to changes in water quality. The impact of physico-chemical parameters on the assemblage of rotifers was conducted in an irrigation canal at Phubala (latitude- 24.60633⁰N and longitude 93.79441⁰E), Bishnupur district of Manipur, North East India, for a period of one year. During the study period, 23 rotifers belonging to 7 families were recorded. The seven different families are: Brachionidae (10 genera), Euchlanidae (2 genera), Mytilinidae (2 genera), Epiphanidae (1 genus), Lecanidae (6genera), Filinidae (1 genus) and Testudinellidae (1 genus). Physico-chemical parameters have a significant influence on the occurrence of rotifers in the aquatic ecosystem. Therefore, the correlation matrix among physico-chemical parameters such as water temperature, pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Free Carbon Dioxide (FCO2) and Total Alkalinity (TA) with the occurrence of rotifer is also studied.

Macrophyte Distributional Patterns and Water Quality in Takmu Lake, Bishnupur District, Manipur, India

Thiyam Hemjit Meitei — 2026-03-09

Takmu Lake, a critical aquatic ecosystem, supports a diverse array of macrophyte species and plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and water quality. This study investigates the qualitative and quantitative distribution of macrophytes, their ecological significance, and the physico-chemical parameters of the lake water across three seasons: pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon. The study found twenty-two (22) macrophyte species belonging to fifteen (15) families distributed in the lake during the study period from April to November 2024. The findings reveal significant seasonal variations in macrophyte distribution, driven by environmental factors such as water levels, nutrient availability, light penetration, and temperature. Key species like Paspalum notatum, Zizania latifolia, and Hydrilla verticillata demonstrate adaptability to these changing conditions, contributing to the lake’s structural and functional diversity. Results showed that water temperature ranged from 15.5°C to 23.5°C, pH ranged from 7.1 to 7.4, and electrical conductivity varied from 130.3 to 163.5µS/cm. Dissolved oxygen levels fluctuated between 2.33 and 5.07 mg/L, free carbon dioxide and total alkalinity were found to exceed acceptable limits during certain seasons, especially before the monsoon. The concentrations of calcium, nitrate, phosphate, and other ions were generally within safe ranges. However, issues such as low dissolved oxygen (DO) levels and elevated alkalinity and CO₂ concentrations before the monsoon indicate potential water quality concerns that require continuous monitoring and appropriate intervention. The study reveals that while Takmu Lake generally maintains good water quality, seasonal variations highlight the need for targeted interventions to address low dissolved oxygen levels, manage seasonal fluctuations in alkalinity and CO₂, and reduce contamination from external sources. Effective management strategies, such as the installation of a water treatment facility and protective barriers, are essential to safeguard the lake’s ecological balance and ensure consistent water quality for both local communities and biodiversity conservation.

Study on Physico-Chemical Characteristics and Diversity of Aquatic Macrophytes of Ningthoukhong River in Manipur

Thangjam Bipin Singh — 2026-03-09

The present investigation has made an attempt to assess the variation in the physicochemical status of the Ningthoukhong River. Water samples were collected from two sites (upstream and downstream) from April 2024 to March 2025 on a monthly basis and evaluated. This assessment indicates significant variations in various water quality parameters between the two sites throughout the study period. The average water temperatures measured were 20.88°C in the upstream site and 21.3°C in the downstream site. The pH levels were found to be 7.57 in the upstream and 7.44 in the downstream. Free carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentrations were recorded at 7.66 mg/L in the upstream and 13.93 mg/L in the downstream. Dissolved oxygen (DO) levels were 5.59 mg/L in the upstream and 3.75 mg/L in the downstream. Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) was measured at 7.07 mg/L in the upstream and 4.56 mg/L in the downstream. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) values were 17.43 mg/L in the upstream and 9.37 mg/L in the downstream. Hardness levels were recorded at 44 mg/L in the upstream and 59.16 mg/L in the downstream. Macrophytes were collected and identified according to standard literature, resulting in the documentation of a total of 32 macrophyte species during the study period.

Water Quality as an Indicator of Ecosystem Condition in Waithou Lake, Manipur, Northeast India

Sanabam Rebika Devi — 2026-03-09

Water is one of the most essential and abundant natural resources, playing a crucial role in sustaining life. However, with rapid industrialisation, urbanisation, and population growth, the demand for water has increased significantly across domestic, agricultural, and industrial sectors. Lakes, as dynamic freshwater ecosystems, support a vast array of biodiversity and provide essential services such as drinking water, fisheries, irrigation, industrial activities, and recreation. They also contribute to groundwater recharge, regulate hydrological cycles, and maintain ecological balance. This study focuses on Waithou Lake, one of the major lakes in Manipur, Northeast India. The main objectives of this study are to assess the seasonal variations in the water quality of Waithou Lake and to analyse key physicochemical parameters affecting the lake’s ecosystem. Seasonal sampling (pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon) was conducted in 2024, and water quality parameters were analysed using standard procedures. Key physicochemical parameters measured include water temperature (19.46–27.40°C), electrical conductivity (182.25–401.50 µS/cm), total dissolved solids (90.58–197 mg/L), pH (6.74–7.26), dissolved oxygen (3.01–3.96 mg/L), free carbon dioxide (15.67–39.78 mg/L), chloride (41.18–53.37 mg/L), total alkalinity (197.08-312.08 mg/l) and total hardness (76.33–158.83 mg/L). DO values did not exhibit statistically significant (p>0.05) seasonal variation; the values consistently remained within the hypoxic range. Total alkalinity showed statistically significant (p<0.05) variation in seasonal variation. The higher values of EC and TDS can be attributed to the urban and agricultural runoff. The findings reveal variations in water quality, which could impact aquatic life and overall ecosystem health and the need for adopting targeted nutrient management strategies to mitigate oxygen depletion and improve the overall water quality of Waithou Lake. Continuous monitoring and sustainable management strategies are necessary to prevent further deterioration and maintain the lake’s ecological integrity. Protecting Waithou Lake is essential not only for preserving biodiversity but also for ensuring its long-term benefits for local communities who rely on it for various needs.

Comparative Assessment of Some Physico-Chemical Parameters of lmphal, Iril and Nambul Rivers in India

Laishram Sangita Devi — 2026-03-09

River water quality in Manipur is also facing growing stress from urbanisation, industrial effluent, and agricultural runoff. The Imphal River, being a key source of water for urban and rural communities, is threatened by domestic sewage, agricultural runoff, and encroachment. The Iril River, although relatively cleaner, is being impacted by deforestation and sedimentation more and more. The Nambul River, running through the central part of Imphal city, is the most contaminated by direct discharge of wastewater and solid waste deposition. This research work presents a comparative evaluation of the water quality of the three prominent rivers of the state—Imphal, Iril, and Nambul—based on pollution sources, environmental effects, and possible conservation measures. Water samples were collected from selected locations along the river and analysed for key parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), hardness, and selected metal ion concentrations using standard analytical procedures. The Water Quality Index (WQI) was utilised to evaluate the overall water quality of the selected rivers. The results revealed elevated levels of BOD and COD at several sampling sites. In the Nambul River, Dissolved Oxygen (DO) content varies between 6.09 mg/L and 5.68 mg/L, and BOD ranges from 3.05 mg/L to 4.27 mg/L indicates high-order pollution and excessive organic matter decomposition due to sewage and industrial waste effluent. On the other hand, the Imphal River showed DO concentrations from 5.89 mg/L to 6.23 mg/L and Values of BOD ranging from 4.27 mg/L to 14.62 mg/L, suggesting organic pollution with oxygen uptake and potential contamination by domestic or industrial effluent set to be toxic to freshwater species. In the Iril River, DO varies from 5.32 mg/L to 6.29 mg/L, and BOD stands at 2.44 mg/L to 5.79 mg/L reflects organic pollution because of discharge from domestic sewage, agricultural waste run-off, or industrial waste. The comparative analysis of the Imphal, Iril, and Nambul Rivers displays substantial differences in water quality, mainly controlled by the level of urbanisation, agricultural activity, and methods of waste disposal. Among the three rivers, the Nambul River was found to be the most polluted due to the direct discharge of untreated sewage and solid waste. There is a need for immediate intervention in the form of enhanced wastewater management, enforcement of pollution control regulations, and community-based conservation practices to prevent further degradation. Effective management of water resources, public consciousness, and policy changes is essential to restore and conserve these rivers for generations to come.

Evaluation of Recreational Water Quality in Surat City Utilising a Water Quality Index (WQI)

Saxena Kalyani — 2026-03-09

Water is an essential resource for all living beings, serving various purposes including industrial use, agriculture, domestic needs, electricity generation, irrigation, fishing, and recreational activities. This study aims to evaluate the quality of water utilised in recreational facilities in Surat City through the application of the Weighted Arithmetic Water Quality Index (WAWQI). The Water Quality Index (WQI) provides a single value that reflects water quality based on multiple physicochemical parameters. The WQI calculation follows the methodology developed by Brown et al. in 1972. Water samples were collected from five distinct swimming pools across different areas of Surat City between January and February 2025. The analysis encompassed physical parameters such as pH, colour, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and total suspended solids, alongside chemical parameters including total hardness, calcium, magnesium, chloride, alkalinity, turbidity, iron, aluminium, and free residual chlorine. Biological assessments utilising Standard Plate Count (SPC), Most Probable Number (MPN), and IMViC tests were conducted to detect bacterial presence. The overall Water Quality Index values ranged from 39.5 to 50.1 across the five samples, categorising the water quality as good.

Evaluation of the Physicochemical Characteristics of Water in Phumnom Lake, Manipur, Northeast India

Kshetrimayum Velinda Chanu — 2026-03-09

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.

Multivariate Analysis of Heavy Metal Pollution in Soils Near Metal Scrap Dealers in the Ankleshwar Region

Mayuri Patil — 2026-03-09

Soil heavy metal contamination is a severe environmental and public health issue in areas of industry, such as Ankleshwar, a serious industrial centre of India. This research is aimed at the multivariate analysis of heavy metal soil pollution around metal scrap dealers' places in the area. Soil samples were taken from various sites and tested for heavy metal content, namely Chromium (Cr), Nickel (Ni), Copper (Cu) and metals like Iron (Fe), Aluminum (Al), Manganese (Mn), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K). Multivariate statistical methods like principal component analysis (PCA) were used to determine the sources of pollution. Site-1 (29.8%) shows an inverse relationship between K, Mn, Ni versus Cu, Na, and Al. Site-2 (27.9%) indicates areas with elevated Cr, Fe, K, and Al compared to Ni and Mn, suggesting specific pollution sources. Site-3 (20.9%) points to weathering processes affecting elemental separation, while Site-4 (12%) highlights Al leaching in certain areas. This research offers useful information on soil contamination and highlights the importance of stricter environmental controls and remediation measures to prevent heavy metal pollution in the study area.

Phytosociological Assessment of Macrophytic Vegetation in Hidenkompat Lake, Bishnupur, Manipur

N. Pinky Devi — 2026-03-09

Hidenkompat Lake is a shallow freshwater wetland located in the Bishnupur district of Manipur, Northeast India. It has a rich diversity of plants growing within its waters. Therefore, it serves many different ecological roles. This study reports on the number of types (species) of plants and quantity of each of those types of plant found at this site over a period of two years, from September 2006 to August 2008. Monthly sampling was conducted at four locations within the lake to determine frequency (%), density and abundance of each species. A total of 41 different types of macrophytes belonging to 38 genera and 24 families were collected and documented. The most dominant family was the Poaceae; this indicates that a high number of emergent & marsh grasses and herbs are growing at the Hidenkompat Lake. The variability observed among frequency values across the surveyed sites ranged from a low of 5% for Mikania micrantha at Site 1 to a high of 85% for Echinochloa stagnina at Site 1, with many species being missing at certain sites. However, there were several other species that showed high frequency occurrences (Echinochloa stagnina, Alternanthera philoxeroides, Ludwigia adscendens & Ipomoea aquatica) in multiple locations, indicating a very broad distribution of those species across all sampled sites. Density value distributions also demonstrated a wide range of densities, with Oryza rufipogon showing the lowest density (0.81 plants m⁻²) at Site 4 and Mikania micrantha the highest (218.4 plants m⁻²) at Site 2. The abundance ranged between 32 (Mikania micrantha at Site 1, Gynura bicolor at Site 2 and Site 3) and 586 (Salvinia cucullata at Site 1). The results of our study will be helpful for monitoring and management of aquatic macrophyte populations to assist in their conservation efforts.

Performance of Ipomoea aquatica in Vertical Flow Construction Wetlands for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment

Patel Hetvi — 2026-03-09

Water pollution has become a critical environmental concern due to the discharge of industrial, agricultural and domestic wastewater, which demands sustainable and cost-effective treatment solutions. Phytoremediation is an emerging green technology. It offers an eco-friendly alternative by utilising plants to absorb, accumulate and degrade contaminants from polluted water. This study examines the efficiency of Ipomoea aquatica (Water Spinach) in treating wastewater through a vertical flow constructed wetland (VCW) system at various hydraulic retention times (HRT). Qualities such as rapid growth, high biomass production, and the ability to remove excess nutrients, organic pollutants, and heavy metals from contaminated water sources make it a valuable tool for treating wastewater. The study shows the incorporation of Ipomoea aquatica inside a VCW system for wastewater treatment. Water quality parameters like TDS, TSS, pH, DO., COD, BOD, Total Hardness, Chlorides, and Nutrients (Sulphate, Phosphate, Nitrate, Ammoniacal Nitrogen) were examined on retention of 3HRT, 6HRT, and 9HRT, respectively. Hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 9 days showed best reduction in sewage wastewater of 59.7% TDS, 74.4% TSS, 98.1% BOD, 92.4% COD, 80.0% NH₄⁺–N, and complete removal of NO₃–N while in dairy effluent, removal efficiencies were 16.8% for TDS, 50.2% for TSS, 90.9% for BOD, 91.1% for COD, 60.5% for NH₄⁺, N, and 79.9% for NO₃–N. Research findings indicate that the application of Ipomoea aquatica in VCW enhances water quality and promotes environmental sustainability. This research highlights the potential of combining phytoremediation with constructed wetlands as an environmentally responsible wastewater treatment system, thus harnessing the natural remediation qualities of Ipomoea aquatica.

Throughfall and Stemflow-Mediated Nutrient Fluxes in a Subtropical Forest of Manipur, Northeast India

Lamabam Usharani — 2026-03-09

The nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems is significantly influenced by the deposition and movement of nutrients through throughfall and stemflow, which act as pathways for the transfer of elements from the canopy to the soil. The study examines the influx of nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na) in precipitation, throughfall and stemflow from a subtropical forest of Manipur. Rainfall and precipitation flux through the forest canopy viz throughfall and stemflow, were measured. The nutrient concentrations of N, P, K, Ca, Mg and Na were recorded for rainfall, throughfall and stemflow. Leaching accounts and input-output ratios were estimated to assess nutrient retention and loss within the forest ecosystem. It was found that the nutrients increase in the order of N>K>Ca>Mg>Na>P in stemflow, and in throughfall, the nutrients increase in the order of N>K>Ca>Na>Mg>P. Maximum leachability of K is observed. The input-output ratio revealed good retention of nitrogen.