Assessing Glacial Lakes in Uttarakhand

Recent developments have brought into light the vulnerabilities of glacial lakes in Uttarakhand. The Centre has mandated a comprehensive study of 13 sensitive glacial lakes. This initiative aims to evaluate their potential impact on cloud bursts and floods. The Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA) will lead this vulnerability assessment. Five of these lakes are classified as being in a high-risk zone.

Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)

Glacial Lake Outburst Floods are important threats in Uttarakhand. These floods occur when a glacial lake breaches its dam. Historical incidents, such as the 2013 Kedarnath disaster and the 2021 Chamoli flood, underline the risks. Over 6,000 lives were lost in 2013. In 2021, more than 200 people died due to a similar event. It is crucial to monitor these lakes to prevent future catastrophes.

Current Vulnerability Studies

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) identified 190 sensitive glacial lakes across India. Uttarakhand’s USDMA is tasked with monitoring these lakes annually. The study will provide essential data for disaster preparedness. A multi-disciplinary team is already in place to inspect these lakes, starting with the Vasudhara Glacial Lake.

Classification of Glacial Lakes

Glacial lakes in Uttarakhand are classified into categories based on their sensitivity. Five lakes are in Category A, indicating high sensitivity. Four of these are located in Pithoragarh. Other lakes are placed in Categories B and C, depending on their risk levels. This classification helps prioritise monitoring efforts.

Challenges in Assessment

The assessment process has faced delays. Initial enthusiasm from the USDMA waned due to overlapping events such as the Chardham Yatra and forest fires. Monsoon season further hindered timely inspections. However, a team has recently been established to assess the Vasudhara Glacial Lake.

Vasudhara Glacial Lake Concerns

Vasudhara Glacial Lake has shown alarming growth. Its size has increased from 0.14 square kilometres in 1968 to 0.59 square kilometres in 2021. This represents a 421.42 percent increase over 53 years. The volume of water has also surged, rising from 2,110,000 cubic metres to 16,200,000 cubic metres. This increase of 767.77 percent raises important concerns regarding potential flooding.

Monitoring and Future Actions

The USDMA’s multi-disciplinary team includes experts from various institutes. They are tasked with preparing a detailed report on the current status of the Vasudhara Glacial Lake. This report is expected soon and will inform future disaster management strategies.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Explain the concept of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and their implications for disaster management in Uttarakhand.
2. Critically analyse the impact of climate change on glacial lakes in the Himalayas.
3. What measures can be taken to improve disaster preparedness in glacial lake regions? Comment with suitable examples.
4. What are the key challenges faced in monitoring sensitive ecological zones like glacial lakes? How can these challenges be addressed?

Answer Hints:

1. Explain the concept of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and their implications for disaster management in Uttarakhand.

1. GLOFs occur when a glacial lake’s dam fails, releasing large volumes of water rapidly.
2. Historical events in Uttarakhand, like the 2013 Kedarnath disaster, resulted in important loss of life and property.
3. In 2021, a GLOF in Chamoli led to over 200 fatalities and destruction of infrastructure.
4. Effective monitoring and early warning systems are essential to mitigate GLOF risks.
5. Disaster management strategies must include regular assessments of glacial lakes to prevent future catastrophes.

2. Critically analyse the impact of climate change on glacial lakes in the Himalayas.

1. Climate change leads to glacier retreat, causing glacial lakes to expand and become unstable.
2. Research indicates that the size of lakes like Vasudhara has increased due to warming temperatures.
3. Increased precipitation and rapid melting contribute to higher water levels, raising flood risks.
4. Glacial lakes are becoming more sensitive to climatic shifts, impacting local ecosystems and communities.
5. Long-term monitoring is crucial to understand and predict changes in these vulnerable areas.

3. What measures can be taken to improve disaster preparedness in glacial lake regions? Comment with suitable examples.

1. Establish comprehensive monitoring systems for glacial lakes, such as the multi-disciplinary team currently assessing Vasudhara.
2. Conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify high-risk lakes and develop targeted action plans.
3. Implement community awareness programs to educate locals about GLOF risks and emergency procedures.
4. Develop infrastructure improvements, such as reinforced dam structures, to withstand potential outbursts.
5. Utilize technology like remote sensing and GIS for real-time data collection and risk assessment.

4. What are the key challenges faced in monitoring sensitive ecological zones like glacial lakes? How can these challenges be addressed?

1. Logistical challenges include difficult terrain and accessibility issues in remote glacial areas.
2. Overlapping seasonal events, such as tourism and monsoons, can delay monitoring efforts.
3. Lack of funding and resources may hinder the establishment of effective monitoring programs.
4. Coordination among various agencies and stakeholders is often inadequate, leading to inefficiencies.
5. Addressing these challenges requires increased investment, improved coordination, and the use of advanced technology for monitoring.