The Hindu Kush-Himalayan region - Pressures and Impacts (1/2)

The Hindu Kush-Himalayan region is rich in various natural resources. Its environment is world-famous for its beauty and benefits. The rivers alone provide water and power for hundreds of millions of people downstream. However, exploitation of the natural resources has to be managed in a sustainable way, so as not to lead to their deterioration or depletion. Thus, sustainable use and preservation of the natural environment have become challenges for today and the future. Although the HKH region is a place of pride that attracts inhabitants, pilgrims, and tourists, the HKH environment is under a range of disturbances. Most important disturbances are: Sewage effluents (organic pollution), deforestation, dams and impoundments, residual flow, water abstraction, sedimentation, and introduction of exotic fish. Sustainable water management is needed to ensure that next generations will be able to utilize the natural heritage. In general the tasks of sustainable management of water comprises resource development plans and rehabilitation of land, i.e. conservation of soil and water. Finally sustainable management of water resources prove most essential for:

Children playing in the River. Sustainable water management is needed to ensure that next generations will be able to utilize the natural heritage of water.
Picture: O. Moog
Industrial effluents: Depending on the components industrial effluents may lead to severe disturbances, like poisoning of humans and animals.
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