Isotopic characterization and estimation of altitude effect using rainwater in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

The growing concerns with groundwater related problems both in terms of quality and quantity have initiated many studies worldwide as water is essential part of human life. Similar concerns of drying up of earlier perennial springs in Himalayan region of India have led to many initiatives by various non-profitable organizations to rejuvenate the drying springs. One of the important aspects for proper management of water in Himalayan region is to understand the source and location of spring recharge and the effect of monsoon rains on the recharge process. Isotopic characterization of rainwater and spring water systems is generally done to identify the source and origin of recharge and contribution from precipitation. This paper deals with the isotopic characterization of rainwater in order to estimate the local meteoric water line as well as estimates the altitude effect at two different locations in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand namely Sherpur and Nakuri Gaad