India Maps Glacial Lakes In Eastern Himalayas To Mitigate Disaster Risks

KOHIMA — A research initiative led by Nagaland University is creating a detailed inventory and risk assessment of high-altitude glacial lakes in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, aiming to prevent potential disasters linked to climate change.

The project focuses on identifying Potentially Dangerous Glacial Lakes, particularly Tenbawa Lake in Sikkim and two others in Arunachal Pradesh. These lakes are prone to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), sudden releases of water triggered by melting glaciers, permafrost collapse, or slope instability.

To evaluate the risk, researchers are conducting bathymetric surveys—underwater mapping techniques—to understand lake depth and terrain. Advanced satellite imagery, drone mapping, and 2D/3D flood modeling are also being used. These tools help estimate the volume of water that could be released and the areas that might be inundated during a GLOF event.

The study also explores long-term climate patterns by examining past GLOF frequencies and permafrost thawing, especially in the Lachung basin of North Sikkim and the Tawang region of Arunachal. Since these lakes lie in the Brahmaputra’s headwaters, any breach could have devastating downstream consequences.

The project holds significance not just for disaster preparedness but also for understanding climate impacts in the eastern Himalayas. Findings will support planning and development to avoid post-disaster losses and improve early warning systems.

In parallel, the research is contributing to the growth of a new Glacier and Mountain Research Lab at Nagaland University, bolstering long-term climate and ecological research in the region. (IANS)