The recent studies on Himalayan glaciers shed light on how the rate of retreat and mass balance variability in different sectors of the mountain range primarily connect to topography and climate. However, inconsistent retreat rates of glaciers and insufficient field data make it difficult to construct a comprehensive view of climate change impact.
Exploring Factors That Influence Glacial Dynamics
A research team from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology in Uttarakhand examined two distinct glaciers, the Pensilungpa Glacier (PG) in Ladakh and the Durung-Drung Glacier (DDG) in Ladakh. They conducted an in-depth comparative analysis of glacier fluctuations spanning from 1971 to 2019. The team also assessed the impact of debris cover on the ice mass loss during summer and the terminal recession of glaciers.
Their research concluded that the glacier retreat rate hinges upon climate change, along with the topographic setting and morphology of the glacier. It was also discovered that the thickness of the debris cover considerably modifies the glacier’s response to climatic forcing.
Other contributing factors include snout geometry, glacier size, elevation range, slope, aspect, and debris cover. The presence of supra and proglacial lakes also plays a part in the diverse dynamics of glaciers.
Understanding Glacial Retreat
Glacial retreat involves the shrinking or receding of a glacier over time due to a decrease in ice accumulation or an increase in ice melt. This can occur due to several factors, such as increased global temperatures, changes in precipitation patterns, or changes in the surrounding landscape’s geography.
As a glacier retreats, it can give rise to numerous significant environmental impacts. These include alterations in water availability, changes to local ecosystems, and an increased risk of natural disasters like floods and landslides. Moreover, glacial ice loss can contribute to rising sea levels, greatly affecting coastal communities and ecosystems worldwide.
UPSC Civil Services Examination – Previous Year Questions
Here are some prelims and mains questions related to glaciers and the environment from previous UPSC Civil Services Examinations.
Prelims Q.1: With reference to Earth’s water, consider the following statements:
– The amount of water in rivers and lakes is greater than the amount of groundwater.
– The amount of water in polar ice caps and glaciers is greater than the amount of groundwater.
Which statements are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b)
Prelims Q.2: Which of the following phenomena might have influenced the evolution of organisms?
(2014)
– Continental drift
– Glacial cycles
Choose the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: c
Mains Q.1: How do the melting of the Arctic ice and glaciers of the Antarctic differently affect weather patterns and human activities on Earth? Explain. (2021)
This factual exposition aims to elucidate the important dynamics surrounding Himalayan glaciers and their retreat. This is increasingly important in light of the rising global temperatures and climate change, thus making it a crucial subject for studies and examinations.
