Integrated Water Resource Management: A Sustainable Approach to Mitigating Pollution in Urban Watersheds

Abstract

Water resource engineering has evolved into a multidisciplinary field addressing the challenges of pollution, sustainability, and urbanization. This paper presents an integrated approach to watershed management with a specific focus on mitigating pollution in urban water bodies. It evaluates the effectiveness of green infrastructure, decentralized wastewater treatment, and community engagement models in controlling point and non-point source pollution. Through case studies from mid-sized Indian cities, the research highlights how combined hydrological modeling, pollution monitoring, and policy intervention can restore water quality and ecological health. The results underline the necessity of bridging engineering solutions with regulatory frameworks and public awareness for long-term impact. This study aims to contribute a replicable model for integrated urban water resource planning that balances development and environmental preservation.

KEYWORDS: Urban Watersheds, Pollution Control, Green Infrastructure, Decentralized Treatment, Water Quality.