Assessing Disappearance and Degradation of Water Bodies in Sarayan Watershed: A Remote Sensing-Based Temporal Analysis

Shreyanshi Singh; Upasana yadav

doi:10.54060/a2zjournals.jase.99

Authors

Shreyanshi Singh Amity School of Applied Sciences, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, India
Upasana yadav Amity School of Applied Sciences, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54060/a2zjournals.jase.99

Keywords:

Water body reduction, Sarayan Watershed, remote sensing, land use change, climate impact, groundwater recharge

Abstract

This study uses remote sensing and GIS tools to evaluate temporal changes in sur-face water bodies in the Sarayan Watershed from 1974 to 2024. Over the last five decades, the number of water bodies in the watershed has dropped dramatical-ly—from 833 in 1974 to only 309 in 2024, a 62.9% decrease. Similarly, the overall area under water bodies has decreased by 32.5%, with several notable tals, such Ludhaura, Lohara, and Bhinsara, completely disappearing. This concerning trend is linked to urbanization, agricultural development, groundwater extraction, sedimen-tation, and climate variability. Spatial research demonstrates growing fragmenta-tion, with water bodies concentrating around natural depressions and river networks. The reduction has had a substantial impact on groundwater recharge, flood regula-tion, local agriculture, biodiversity, and microclimates. Seasonal and small-scale wa-ter bodies, which were formerly critical to rural livelihoods and ecological equilibri-um, have declined or disappeared. These findings highlight the critical need for inte-grated watershed management, the restoration of traditional water bodies, and leg-islative interventions to prevent future degradation. The study provides useful in-formation for environmental planners, regulators, and water resource managers working to ensure long-term water conservation in the region.

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Author Biography

Shreyanshi Singh, Amity School of Applied Sciences, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, India

AmityvSchool of applied sciences

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