Aquatic geochemistry of a major freshwater lake in the Kashmir Himalaya: solute acquisition and denudation process in the lacustrine system

Abstract

improved abrasion rates and ensuant settling of detritus into the lake are closely linked with the prominent physical weathering over chemical weathering. The new finding of the present study is that sediments represent an unweathered basalt compositional trend, plausible provenance from mafic rocks, experiencing low to moderate degree of chemical weathering. The study found that increased encroachment within the lake catchment due to continued anthropogenic forcing is the primary source contributing the organic matter (OM) as well as the higher levels of Cl, NO 3 , SO 4 , and P to the lake. These findings corroborate with the land use-land cover changes (from the last 50 years) within the lake catchment in significantly deteriorating the lake system. The study recommends that the ongoing conversion of lake peripheral areas into urban settlement and agro-horticulture land by filling activities should be restricted.