Temporal changes in water quality in Leh Ladakh region: Impact of urbanization

Abstract

Water is a valuable and limited resource in semi-arid regions like Ladakh. Effective management and conservation of water are crucial to prevent negative consequences on the area's quality of life. Since becoming a Union territory, Leh, a district of Ladakh, has undergone rapid urbanization due to its administrative status, air service facilities, tourism, and increasing population. However, this urbanization and tourism boom have resulted in a higher demand for water and a decline in its quality. Glacial-fed water is the primary source for drinking and agriculture in Ladakh. As Ladakh has become a popular tourist destination, the distribution and quality of water have been negatively affected. Construction of hotels and guest houses on agricultural lands, could further harm Ladakh's fragile ecological environment. Due to the challenging terrain and harsh conditions, there has been limited research on water quality in the region andare confined to the Leh district only. Despite lack of comprehensive information, this review aims to address three important questions: the hydrochemistry of water resources, the impact of urbanization on water quality, and the existing research gap in hydrochemistry in significant areas and water resources. The objective is to establish fundamental data for future research and contribute to a better understanding of water resources in the region.