The Churni River: Exploring the Past, Present, and Future
摘要
This chapter articulates the historical significance, present condition, and prospective future of the Churni River. As the river encompasses the rich history and cultural legacyCultural legacy, the present chapter explores how the river has been changing throughout time by the natural processes and anthropogenic interventions and how it has been affecting the riverine communities depending on the river for their lives and livelihoodsLivelihood. The river has been experiencing several issues, such as decreasing dischargeDischarge (environmental flowEnvironmental flow), chronic water pollution from point- and non-point sources like industrial waste water, urban runoff, agrichemicals from agricultural runoff, brick kiln industry, etc. Therefore, this chapter examines these urgent concerns, illuminating the causes of the environmental flowEnvironmental flow crisis as well as the consequences for the ecosystem and society. Moreover, this attempt will also offer a forward-looking view, outlining potential strategies for Churni River restorationChurni river restoration and sustainable management. By fusing historical perspectives, contemporary issues, and promising future developments, the present attempt aims to outline the nature and extent of key issues which may serve as a helpful guide for academician, policymakers, and regional planners for implementing the necessary actions to ensure the ecological resiliency and long-term sustainability.