Water quality management for the Talkatora Lake, Jaipur – a case study

This paper describes the field-based research study undertaken to quantify the pollution, identify the sources of pollution and draw up a plan of action to restore the water quality of the Talkatora Lake located in Jaipur City, capital of Rajasthan State. Laboratory analysis of water samples at different time periods and a mass balance of the lake waters showed that the first flush of stormwater from the adjoining residential and commercial areas was a major cause of pollution in the lake. An integrated waste management strategy to limit the pollution discharged to this lake to enable self-purification was recommended. The mitigation measures were partially implemented and the results of a rapid assessment of the subsequent lake water quality are also reported.