Introduction
The human welfare is integrally twined with the integrity of an ecosystem which sustains the availability of natural resources. However mismanagement of ecological systems with the unplanned developmental activities has impaired ecosystem services evident from the barren hill tops, conversion of perennial streams to seasonal streams, reduced biological productivities, etc. The anthropogenic activities have altered natural landscapes affecting their capacity of (i) bioremediation - filter nutrients and contaminants from water, (ii) flood mitigation - abate flood waters associated with extreme climate events, (iii) retain water, soils, and nutrients, (iv) resist invasive species establishment, and (v) provide for natural predators of pests. The ecosystem is experiencing pressures from drivers such as land use land cover [LULC] change, changes in the climate due to enhanced GHG (Greenhouse gas) levels in the atmosphere, pollutants (air, water and land) and propagation of invasive species. This necessitates appropriate policy measures to mitigate the disturbances so as to ensure not to exceed the threshold state from which it may not recover or may take many years to return to its previous state through natural processes. In this regard, the current issue focusses on the need for integration of the ecological, environmental considerations into administration and management of river basins, which is a major step towards an ecological audit that eventually should result in the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.