Sedimentation Dynamics in Urban Lakes and Reservoirs of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar District : Causes, Impacts and Strategies

Sedimentation is a critical issue affecting the long-term functionality and water sustainability of reservoirs and lakes in semi-arid regions. This study examines sedimentation problems in Mombatta Lake and Harsul Dam in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar District, Maharashtra, India. Field observations indicate significant siltation caused by soil erosion in catchment areas, unregulated land use, and monsoonal runoff. The impacts include reduced storage capacity, poor water quality, and ecological imbalance. To address these challenges, an integrated management framework is proposed, consisting of catchment area treatment, sediment interception measures, and in-lake management techniques. Specific recommendations are provided for both reservoirs, demonstrating that combining structural and non-structural approaches can effectively enhance water sustainability for irrigation, drinking, and ecological purposes.