Shashank Shekhar speaking on "River flows" at India Rivers Week 2014
Channel: IndiaWater Portal
Date: 04/01/2015

Shashank Shekhar presenting the discussions of the group “Flows (surface and sub surface)” clarified that “flow is a defining characteristic of river. The temporal and spatial aspect of flows needs to be considered. The flow with its natural variability includes natural water, nutrients, sediments and biota and is the defining characteristic of river systems.” This he said enables it to sustain ecosystem functions; carry out geo-morphological functions (natural material transport); perform groundwater recharge function; support/ meet needs of living beings on sustainable basis and maintain social and cultural heritage. Flow is an integral part of river which gives its identity. The group discussed about virgin/ pristine flows versus one with human intervention and the various components of flows. The linkages between sub-surface and surface flows were stressed. Flow decline can happen because of upstream diversions as also groundwater extraction through borewells for irrigation. Groundwater is the country’s lifeline today but excessive groundwater development is not sustainable. The need to understand river bed and its geomorphology was highlighted since changes in this bed morphology often leads to connectivity loss. The importance of soil profile was mentioned.