Exploring the interlinkages between water security and biodiversity in Sub-Himalayan Jammu City: An ecosystem-based approach

Human well-being, human development and peaceful coexistence require healthy ecosystems and ecosystem services. The complex interlinkages between water security and biodiversity are crucial for sustainable development. Biodiversity plays a crucial role in regulating the nutrient cycle and water and mitigating the impacts of climate change. However, the increasing demand for water due to population growth, urbanization, and economic development poses a threat to both water security and biodiversity. The need for a holistic approach to water security, which includes the protection of aquatic biodiversity, is emphasized. Understanding their interconnectedness is vital for effective environmental management. Employing an ecosystem-based approach, the paper investigates the interlinkages between water security and biodiversity in Sub-Himalayan Jammu City as the city faces significant challenges in maintaining water and biodiversity security due to varied anthropogenic and natural factors. The study provides a comprehensive overview of the current water security and biodiversity status in Jammu City. The study explores the role of ecosystem services in promoting water security, such as water purification, flood regulation, and habitat provision, while examining the issue of land use changes. Moreover, it investigates how preserving and restoring biodiversity can enhance ecosystem resilience and contribute to sustainable water management practices. The study highlights the need for a paradigm shift towards ecosystem-based approaches to develop more sustainable and resilient water management strategies in Jammu City while safeguarding its rich biodiversity.