The Himalayan region faces increasing challenges as monsoonal climates create dry seasons, making mountain aquifers critical yet rapidly depleting, with many springs drying up. Government engineering projects depend on these shrinking sources and don’t address root causes. Water quality is worsening, and livelihoods are shifting towards horticulture and services. These issues stem from disrupted aquifer recharge due to land use and climate change, rapid urbanization, and reduced use of nature-based solutions. Rising water demand, contamination from poor sewage management, and fertilizer use further contribute to the problem. Addressing these complex issues requires better data, targeted watershed management, critical zone recharge, nature-based approaches, and climate-smart adaptation, alongside innovative technologies and integrated governance.
