JAMMU, MAR 27: The Government of Jammu and Kashmir is taking significant steps to address the growing risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the Union Territory. With the region’s unique geography, characterized by high-altitude glaciers and lakes, J&K is particularly vulnerable to the sudden breaches of glacial lakes, which can release millions of cubic meters of water and debris. The rising global temperatures are accelerating the melting of glaciers, leading to the formation of numerous glacial lakes that are now at risk of catastrophic outbursts.
To mitigate these risks, the government has adopted a comprehensive and proactive approach, which includes collecting critical data, identifying high-risk glacial lakes, and developing advanced early warning systems. This initiative has been rolled out in phases, starting with expeditions and data collection. Bathymetric surveys, water sampling, and meteorological data are being gathered to understand the dynamics and characteristics of these lakes. Risk assessment is another key focus, with experts identifying the most vulnerable lakes based on 17 critical parameters, such as size, location, and potential mass movement zones.
A crucial part of the government’s strategy is the establishment of a fully functional Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Early Warning System (EWS), designed to enhance preparedness and response in the event of potential GLOF occurrences. In addition to the early warning system, mitigation measures such as lake-lowering techniques and site-specific interventions are being implemented to reduce the risks associated with these glacial lakes.
The Focused Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) Monitoring Committee (FGMC) has been set up to oversee the execution of these mitigation strategies. As part of its work, the committee has identified 14 high-risk glacial lakes, 3 moderate-risk lakes, and 7 low-risk lakes. Expeditions have been conducted to high-risk lakes, including Sheeshnag and Sonsar, to gather more data and refine the strategies for risk reduction. These expeditions aim to enhance understanding and improve the region’s preparedness for potential GLOF events.
The J&K government plans to expand its efforts further by enhancing the predictive capabilities for heavy rainfall events and ensuring that emergency responders, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), are well-prepared for any crisis. Awareness campaigns are also being launched, with Aapda Mitras being sensitized and activated to remain vigilant in local areas, ensuring that communities are adequately informed and ready to respond to emergencies.
Building on this momentum, specialized expeditions are also underway to study critical glacial lakes in the region. Led by Dr. Sunil Dhar from the Department of Environmental Sciences at Central University of Jammu, these expeditions have focused on high-risk lakes in the Kishtwar district, including Mundiksar Lake, Hangu Lake, and an unnamed lake. The data collected during these expeditions provides invaluable insights into the lakes’ environmental conditions and their potential risks for GLOF events. A subsequent expedition was conducted to Gangabal Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake in the northwestern Himalayas, where researchers assessed the lake’s physical and geological characteristics, including local geomorphology, the stability of its natural dam, and glacier conditions.
Although Gangabal Lake is classified as high-risk due to its location and the dynamics of the feeding glacier, the field survey found the lake to be stable at present. The consolidated dam material, lack of piping activity, and steady water discharge contribute to this stability. However, the steep slopes and visible mass movement zones surrounding the lake, along with the crevassed Harmukh Glacier, highlight the need for continuous monitoring to mitigate any future risks.
As the government moves forward with its initiatives, the focus remains on strengthening infrastructure, improving monitoring systems, and raising awareness to safeguard communities living near these vulnerable glacial lakes.
