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Nature and Social Concern Society 65

Nature reflects our nature k | ltlaDa

Ponds are integral to the water systems as they help regulate the water system . Ponds collect the surface water and help to replenish the subsurface aquifers . According to hydro-geology expert Shrestha , in his interview with the Himalayan Times , depletion of aquifer-level has adverse effects on the structural impact on the land formation ( Tandan , 2016 ), disturbance in the recharge of underground water can result in a reduced water table leading to the severe water crisis and even disasters like cave-ins . Keeping these references in mind , Nhu Pokhari ’ s existence can play an integral role in continuing to feed the aquifers .
Furthermore , ponds can be valuable agents in regulating the environmental condition of its locality . Ponds are found to remove diffused pollutants including sediments such as phosphorus and nitrogen from the water surface ( Cereghino et al ., 2014 ). Ponds are fundamentally constructed wetlands , and biodiversity can benefit from such water mass . In this light , ponds can be good hosts for macroinvertebrates ( Becerra-Juarado , Harrington , & Kelly-Quinn , 2011 ), which are fuels for birds and fishes .
Due to the crucial role of Nhu Pokhari for the ecosystem , the locals had held a series of discussions with the government agencies for its restoration . They have not only been able to propel water conservation but they have also been able to restore the underground canal system . Thus , during monsoon season , the water level reaches up to 9 feet and remains at a steady of 4 feet during the dry seasons ( CIUD , 2015 ). Increased awareness has blocked the flow of chemicals into the water resulting in a clearer water body , which is essential for the survival of the flora and fauna . Water quality tests suggested a fairly clean water favorable for fishery ( CIUD , 2015 ). In addition to the ecological contribution of Nhu Pokhari , the pond places forth opportunities for income generation . For the cleanliness of the pond , a caretaker from the locality has been hired , who also takes care of the fishery . According to the interview , the income from such activities is used in the pond ’ s management . Gardening works are also carried where appropriate .
Conclusion : Nhu Pokhari restoration is a constructive step towards sustainability . The reconstruction of the Nhu Pokhari can be an example to the country , when the capital seems to be struggling to restore Rani Pokhari , one of the city ’ s iconic landmarks .
Nhu Pokhari is a part of the water management system from the past . This historic site almost lost its identity once . However , the pond exists because of the awareness of the locals . Still , the long-term management of the pond is a challenge . The continuation of managing the pond and the success of the endeavor depends on the cooperation between the governmental departments , local authorities , and the community ( Nonga et al ., 2010 ). Reviving Nhu Pokhari is a crucial element in conserving the past , which can further pave a better path for the future . Revitalizing this pond can also assist in resuscitating the traditional water spot of Patan .
References : Becerra-Juarado , G ., Harrington , R ., & Kelly-Quinn , M . ( 2011 ). A review of the potential of surface flow constructed wetlands to enhance macroinvertebrate diversity in agricultural landscapes with particular reference to Integrated Constructed Wetlands . Hydrobiologia , 692 ( 1 ).
Centre for integrated urban development . ( 2015 ). Lost ponds can be revived-An example of Nhu Pukhu , Lalitpur . Retrieved from http :// www . ciud . org . np / new /? q = content / lost-ponds-can-be-revived-example-nhu-pukhu-lalitpur
Cereghino , R ., Boix , D ., Cauchie , H ., Martens , K ., & Oertli , B . ( 2014 ). The ecological role of ponds in a changing world . Hydrobiologia , 723 ( 1 ).
Joshi , P . ( 2014 ). Traditional water management system of Kathmandu valley : Challenges and opportunities . Kathmandu : UN-HABITAT .
Nonga , H . E ., Mdegela , R . H ., Lie , E ., Sandvik , M ., & Skaare , J . U . ( 2010 ). Socio-economic values of wetland resources around lake Manyara , Tanzania : Assessment of environmental threats and local community awareness on environmental

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