Himalayas approaching tipping point as glaciers melt faster
New Delhi: The Himalayas are approaching a potential tipping point as glaciers continue to melt faster, raising concerns over water security and the livelihoods of millions of people, according to a study released this month. The report warned that the region could reach “peak water” by the middle of the century. This refers to the point when river flows, after initially increasing because of glacier melt, begin to decline.
Glacier collapse raises fresh concerns
The findings come after the collapse of a Himalayan glacier along the Nepal-Tibet border in late August triggered landslides and flash floods in downstream valleys.According to the source, at least 1,300 people were confirmed dead and more than 5,300 were missing across Nepal and China’s Tibet region. As glaciers retreat, they leave behind glacial lakes that can be held back by unstable rock and ice. A sudden breach could send large amounts of water into valleys where millions of people live.
Nearly 200 high-risk glacial lakes in India
The study identified nearly 200 glacial lakes in India as high risk, with 56 classified as very high risk. The report said these lakes could expose millions of people living downstream to potential risks. The study was prepared by Systemiq along with the Integrated Mountain Initiative, the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development and India’s G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment.
Only 21 glaciers monitored on the ground
The report found that glacier mass loss has accelerated in recent decades. However, only 21 glaciers are currently monitored on the ground out of an estimated 40,000 glaciers across the Hindu Kush-Himalaya region. The vast mountain system stretches across eight countries, from Afghanistan to Myanmar.
Water security and economy at risk
The Himalayan region plays an important role in water availability across South Asia. According to the report, the region underpins more than 20% of India’s GDP, making it an important part of the country’s economic infrastructure. Although the Himalayan region accounts for around 18% of India’s land area, it contributes roughly 35% of the country’s natural disasters, the study said. The report highlights the need for stronger glacier monitoring, early-warning systems and long-term planning to reduce risks to communities dependent on the Himalayan region.
