Hydrological Stability of Coastal Ecosystems Under the Transformation of Small Towns

The study examines changes in the hydrographic characteristics of the city of Uglich from 1985 to 2024. Analysis of satellite imagery using the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) revealed a reduction in the area of water bodies, including the coastal zones of the Volga River. It was found that the key factors driving these changes are anthropogenic impacts such as urbanization, coastal zone landscaping, and pollution, as well as natural processes such as shoreline erosion and alterations in hydrological cycles. Measures to establish buffer zones are proposed to minimize the negative impact of urban infrastructure on hydrography. The findings emphasize the need to implement sustainable environmental solutions to preserve and restore water bodies in small towns.