Hydrology and Sediment Loading of Hokersar Wetland Sanctuary in the Kashmir Himalaya , India

Abstract

Hydrological characteristics and sedimentation loading in Hokersar wetland of Kashmir Himalaya was monitored from November 2000 to October 2001. The computed water budget showed a substantial (91%) input from various surface inflows and just 9% through precipitation. Major water discharge (67%) occurs through surface outlets , whilst , 33% is attributed to evapotranspiration and other unaccounted for losses. Relatively low flushing rate (3.75 times/year) and high residence time (97.3 days) contribute to increased nutrient retention in the wetland. The inflow/outflow rates are closely linked to precipitation and water demand in'the catchment. Annual sediment accumulation of 16 ,862.2 metric tonnes (93% contributed by Doodganga Channel) accounts for gradual filling-in of the Kokersar wetland ecosystem.