3 days ago
Himachal Pradesh Identifies 67 Vulnerable Glacial Lakes, Plans Warnings
Himachal Pradesh has found 67 glacial lakes that could become dangerous.
These lakes are in high mountain areas, including Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti.
If a lake suddenly releases its water, it can cause a fast and destructive flood.
This is called a glacial lake outburst flood, or GLOF.
Officials want to install warning systems at four of the riskiest lakes.
Satellites will help scientists watch for changes in the lakes.
However, many sites have no mobile or internet connection, making it hard to send warnings.
The state is working with technical experts and seeking approval to begin at Dipang Ghat.
Himachal Pradesh has identified 67 vulnerable glacial lakes larger than 10 hectares.
Early warning systems are planned for four high-risk lakes in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti.
Authorities are using satellite imagery and scientific data to monitor changes in the lakes.
Remote locations without network connectivity complicate sensor installation and real-time data transmission.
The state is seeking National Disaster Management Authority approval to install a system at Dipang Ghat.
- Who
- Himachal Pradesh disaster-management authorities, led in the announcement by Special Secretary Pushpinder Rana, are coordinating with the National Disaster Management Authority and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing.
- What
- The state has identified 67 vulnerable glacial lakes and is developing early warning systems for four high-risk sites.
- Where
- Himachal Pradesh, particularly Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, the Sangla-Kinnaur region and Dipang Ghat.
- When
- The announcement came days after massive devastation and loss of lives in Nepal; no specific date was provided.
- Why
- Authorities are concerned that glacial lake outburst floods can occur without heavy rainfall and threaten downstream settlements and infrastructure.
Key facts
- Vulnerable lakes identified
- 67 glacial lakes larger than 10 hectares
- High-risk sites targeted
- Four lakes in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti
- Monitoring methods
- Satellite imagery and other scientific data
- Main hazard
- Glacial lake outburst floods, which can cause flash floods
- Key technical challenge
- Remote locations lack conventional network connectivity
- Dipang Ghat plan
- An early warning system will be installed after final approval from the National Disaster Management Authority
- Additional protection measure
- High Flood Level marking is underway in downstream areas near Dipang Ghat
Quotes
Pushpinder Rana
Himachal Pradesh Special Secretary for Disaster Management
“Number bada hai, chinta ka vishay toh hai hi (The figure is huge, it’s of course a matter of concern). At the State Centre for Climate Change, we have identified 67 such lakes which are above 10 hectares in area. We are analysing them through satellite and other data to see whether any such situation is developing in them.”
wionews.com
“The problem is that these locations are in very remote areas where there is no network connectivity. Where will the sensors be installed, how will they be installed and how will the data be transferred? These are the challenges.”
wionews.com
Sources
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