Following a landslide in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, 13 glacial lakes have emerged as potential threats. Five of these are considered extremely risky. Studies on the Basudhara lake are complete, while research on four lakes in Pithoragarh is underway.
Chamoli Landslide: The landslide near Mana in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, has once again brought the dangers posed by glacial lakes in the state into the spotlight. Located in the high Himalayan region, these lakes pose a significant threat of future disasters. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has identified 13 glacial lakes in the state as high-risk, with five categorized as extremely dangerous.
Study of Five High-Risk Lakes
The government has decided to prioritize the study of the five most critical lakes. The study of the Basudhara lake in Chamoli district is already complete, and the data is currently being analyzed. Simultaneously, studies will commence on four extremely risky lakes in Pithoragarh district.
Lessons from the 2013 Kedarnath Tragedy
It is noteworthy that the devastating floods in Kedarnath in June 2013 were largely attributed to the breaching of a lake formed by the Chorabari glacier. Since this event, heightened surveillance of glacial lakes in the high Himalayan region of Uttarakhand has been implemented. Experts warn that the breaching of these lakes could trigger catastrophic floods, potentially endangering thousands of lives.
Expert Team to Conduct In-depth Studies
A 15-member team of experts has been constituted to study the glacial lakes. This team comprises experts from the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA), Uttarakhand Landslide Management and Mitigation Centre, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, ITBP, NDRF, and SDRF.
Based on the experts' report, the government will formulate new strategies for monitoring these lakes to effectively address any potential hazards.
Which Lakes Pose a Threat?
The National Disaster Management Authority has identified 13 glacial lakes in the following Uttarakhand districts:
Chamoli - Basudhara and three other lakes
Uttarkashi - Kedartal
Bageshwar - Nagkund lake
Pithoragarh - Mabang, Piyugru, and four others
Tehri - Masuri Tal
Why is Monitoring Glacial Lakes Necessary?
Glacial lakes represent massive reservoirs of water accumulated in the high Himalayan region. When glaciers melt, these lakes risk breaching, causing sudden glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). This can lead to widespread devastation in the mountainous villages and towns.
In a geographically sensitive state like Uttarakhand, the threat of such natural disasters is ever-present. Therefore, the government and disaster management agencies continuously monitor these lakes to mitigate any potential catastrophes.
What are the Possible Mitigation Measures?
The expert team will examine the water levels, drainage, and stability of these lakes. Subsequently, the following measures may be implemented:
- Construction of tunnels or drainage channels to control water levels.
- Establishment of early warning systems in the vicinity of glacial lakes.
- Development of evacuation plans for villages.
- Government initiatives to strengthen infrastructure in these areas.
