The degradation and alteration of waterbodies globally have been occurring at an alarming rate, surpassing the pace of their restoration efforts. Brari Nambal Lagoon is an important waterbody located in the Kashmir valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The lagoon is a shallow, fresh water body that supports a variety of aquatic plants and animals and is a source of water for the surrounding communities.
However, the water quality of the lagoon has deteriorated due to anthropogenic activities such as pollution from agricultural runoff, domestic sewage and industrial effluents. The physico-chemical properties of the lagoon provide evidence of the significant changes in water quality that have occurred since the early 1980’s. A noticeable decline in dissolved oxygen levels has been observed, indicating a shift in the lagoon’s ecosystem. In addition, the concentrations of harmful substances such as phosphates have increased, suggesting anthropogenic activities are contributing to the lake’s degradation.
This review paper also gives insights about the trophic status of the lagoon by reviewing the different techniques to assess the condition of the lagoon and the need for effective measures to improve and protect the water quality of lagoon to ensure the sustainability of the surrounding communities and ecosystem.
