Rising Water Levels in Lonar Lake: A Conceptual Framework for Subsurface Hydrology and Cultural Heritage Risk
Keywords:
Kamalja Mata Temple, Lonar Lake, Impact crater hydrology, Deccan Trap basalt, Fracture-controlled groundwater, Subsurface hydrological connectivity, Cultural heritage riskAbstract
Lonar Lake, a rare terrestrial meteorite impact crater formed within the Deccan Trap basalt of central India, represents a unique convergence of geological, hydrological, ecological, and cultural significance. In recent years, the lake has exhibited persistent increases in water level, resulting in periodic inundation affecting culturally significant structures such as the Kamalja Mata Temple within the crater basin. While surface hydrological inputs are often cited as explanatory factors, they may be insufficient to explain the magnitude and persistence of observed lake-level changes. This study presents a hypothesis-driven, interdisciplinary framework to examine potential subsurface controls on the hydrological behaviour of Lonar Lake. Drawing upon established knowledge of impact-modified basaltic geology, fracture-controlled groundwater systems, crater lake hydrology, historical water-management practices, long-term irrigation, and modern hydraulic interventions, a set of interlinked hypotheses is proposed suggesting that Lonar Lake may function as a semi-open hydrological system influenced by regional groundwater connectivity. Rather than advancing definitive conclusions, the study outlines conceptual propositions and methodological pathways to guide future geological, hydrogeological, and archaeological investigations. Understanding these processes is essential for advancing crater-lake hydrology and for informing conservation strategies aimed at safeguarding the cultural heritage and ecological integrity of the Lonar crater system.
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