Various traditional water harvesting systems such as Naulas, Dharas, Khals, and Guhls in the Himalayan state like Jammu, Himanchal Pradesh and Uttarakhand have ensured the water security for the local communities since ancient time. These systems have traditional, cultural, and architectural importance for the local communities and environment. This review examines the quality of surface and groundwater in the region by evaluating its physical, chemical, and biological characteristics. Climate change and overpopulation have significant impact in decreasing the water level in these systems. They need to conserve with inclusive concept of practice, with traditional method and advance scientific technologies, and policymaking/implementation. The strategies should seek the harmony of the traditional techniques with the contemporary approaches to conservation, strengthening the involvement of local community, and recognizing the value of the practices in the society. Rehabilitation of traditional water harvesting system, frequent monitoring and assessment is essential to ensure water quality and sustainability of these system that significantly contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) at regional level. Further, promoting local communities specially women self-help groups may contribute significantly in the conservation and management of water in Hilly states for sustainability and resilience against the climate change

Himalayan state, Self- Help Group, Sustainable development goal, Traditional Water Harvesting System, Water Security

Traditional water harvesting systems hold immense cultural, environmental, and practical significance. They have supported communities for centuries by providing a sustainable source of water. However, due to changing climatic conditions and other socio-economic factors, their existence is at risk. The impact of climatic and environmental factors has significant reduction in water availability however, the conservation efforts by various organization including government bodies, NGOs, and local communities aims to preserve these systems. Women play a crucial role in maintaining and reviving traditional water sources, underscoring the importance of collective and gender-inclusive conservation practices. Protecting these traditional resources also contributed in maintenance of the rich heritage due to associated significant cultural beliefs as well as to ensure water security for future generations. Further, frequent monitoring of these resources is necessary to improve the water quality and health of local communities in the hilly states of Himalayan region where major population depends on the natural resource for their survival. Conservation and restoration of traditional water harvesting systems are associated with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6) with aim to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all (UN, 2018). Sustainable management of water resources has significant contribution to other Sustainable Development Goals to achieve balance between the growing social, economic, and ecological needs of an increasing global population (Selvaraj et al., 2022). Promoting sustainable water management, enhancing food security, and improving community resilience against climate change, thereby ensuring equitable access to water resources for future generations

Rohendra Singh, H.C. Joshi, Khashti Dasila, Neha Tiwari, Deepti Negi and Prashant Singh (2025). Cultural Significance and Conservation Challenges of Traditional Water Harvesting Systems of Uttarakhand Himalaya: A Critical Review. Biological Forum, 17(5): 111-123.