What are the environmental implications of the reclamation of water bodies into urban land use? Explain with examples.
1. Reclaimed water bodies lose flood-absorption capacity
Reclaimed water bodies lose flood-absorption capacity, worsening urban flooding; Bengaluru and Chennai floods illustrate this.
2. Groundwater recharge declines sharply
Groundwater recharge declines sharply, lowering water tables and intensifying urban water scarcity.
3. Wetland biodiversity
Wetland biodiversity, aquatic habitats and migratory bird routes are destroyed through filling and encroachment.
4. Remaining water bodies become sewage sinks
Remaining water bodies become sewage sinks, causing eutrophication, algal blooms and severe water-quality decline.
5. Loss of natural drainage and micro-climate
Loss of natural drainage and micro-climate regulation amplifies flash floods and urban heat island effects.
6. Examples include Bellandur and Varthur lakes
Examples include Bellandur and Varthur lakes in Bengaluru, Pallikaranai marsh in Chennai and Powai lake in Mumbai.
7. East Kolkata wetlands and Yamuna floodplains
East Kolkata wetlands and Yamuna floodplains face reclamation pressure despite Ramsar and legal protections.
8. The Wetlands Rules 2010/2017
The Wetlands Rules 2010/2017, NGT orders and floodplain zoning check illegal reclamation. Lake rejuvenation and blue-green infrastructure offer sustainable alternatives.
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