Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: Nine Glacial Lakes in Himachal have emerged as high-risk sites, raising concerns over the threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). An IIT Mandi study assessed nearly 2,000 glacial lakes and identified nine as particularly vulnerable.
The study found that several glacial lakes have expanded rapidly. Some have grown by 30% to 60% over the past decade, reflecting accelerated glacier melting and wider changes in the Himalayan environment.
What Is a GLOF and Why Is It Dangerous?
A Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) occurs when water builds up in front of a melting glacier and forms a lake. If the ice, rock or debris barrier holding the water gives way, a large volume of water can suddenly flow downstream.
The flood can carry water, ice, mud and rocks, damaging villages, bridges, roads and other infrastructure along its path.
The IIT Mandi study recorded rapid expansion in lakes including Ghepan Ghat, Kashang and Kalikund. Researchers linked the changes to glacier melting and the thawing of permafrost, or permanently frozen ground, which can increase terrain instability.
Monitoring and Early-Warning Systems in Focus
The Centre reviewed the preparedness of Himalayan states, including Himachal Pradesh, on September 3. The review focused on monitoring vulnerable lakes, strengthening early-warning systems, mapping flood-flow paths and improving evacuation preparedness.
Authorities have identified 67 glacial lakes in Himachal Pradesh as vulnerable and plan to install early-warning systems at the four lakes considered to face the highest risk.
However, identifying a lake as high-risk does not mean that a GLOF is currently occurring or is imminent. The growing size of these lakes highlights a potential hazard and the need for effective monitoring and preparedness.
The key challenge remains whether monitoring, early-warning and evacuation systems can detect dangerous changes in time and function effectively on the ground.
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