The evolution of human civilization and urbanization has been centered around catchment (watershed, river basins) areas. As evident from the archaeological ruins of the earlier civilizations, the decision makers and planners recognized the importance of catchment areas as the physical planning units for urban development.However, in the post-industrial era, the practice of catchment management has often been ignored. With the increasing industrialization and transport network, the pace of urbanization has gained momentum. The cities,which were earlier created for specific functions and carrying capacities, are increasingly expected to meet the demands of multiple economic activities and growing population. The run-away growth in urbanization without commensurate backup infrastructure for civic amenities has taken its toll through increasing pollution.Pollution and associated problems are, to a great extent, attributable to lack of environmental considerations in planning and management of urban systems. The urban centres are confronted with various kinds of pollution,the nature and extent of which depend on the sources of pollution as well as physiographic conditions such as watershed and airshed. The present proper focuses on water pollution, which has a direct bearing on the urban catchment management. This article gives an introduction to urban catchment management and pollution control.
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