Ramgarh Lake, a once-magnificent water body near Jaipur, Rajasthan, has faced severe degradation and is currently dry. It is situated 32 kilometres from Jaipur, and covers a maximum area of 15.5 square kilometres. The lake was built by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II in 1876 to provide relief to the inhabitants of Ramgarh. The four rivers, Roda, Banganga, Tala and Madhoveni, used to bring their water to the lake, have gone dry. Ramgrah Dam was constructed on Banganga River, which originates from Bairath in Jaipur district and ultimately flows into Yamuna at Fatehbad (near Agra).
The lake was a vital source of water for Jaipur City and a popular recreational spot. However, due to factors such as reduced water inflow from its tributary rivers, encroachment in the catchment area, and poor water management practices, the lake has lost its ecological significance.
This study employs satellite remote sensing to assess the current state of the Ramgarh Lake catchment area. By analyzing historical and recent satellite imagery, we aim to identify changes in land use and land cover, assess the extent of encroachment, and delineate the watershed boundaries. This information will be crucial in understanding the factors contributing to the lake's degradation and developing strategies for its potential restoration.
