Cost-benefit analysis of springs revival in the Indian Himalayan Region

Natural springs are the lifelines of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH), sustaining over 100 million people, agriculture, livestock, and wildlife, while buffering fragile ecosystems against climate shocks. Yet, nearly half of these springs have dried or become seasonal due to geology, land-use change, and climate change. A group of economists from South Asian Network for Development and Environmental Economics (SANDEE) conducted a cost-benefit analysis of springs revival activities in the Indian Himalaya. Their findings suggests that the benefits of spring revival far exceed the costs—even before ecological gains are considered. Therefore, investing in restoring these springs is not only urgent but also offers exceptional returns, making spring revival one of the most powerful strategies to safeguard water security, livelihoods, and ecosystems in the HKH region.