GLOF Hazard: J&K Govt. adopts focused, holistic
& proactive approach for mitigation & risk reduction
Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Early Warning System (EWS) to
be established to enhance preparedness
SRINAGAR, MARCH 28: Following
imminent risk of sudden breach of Glacial Lakes in high altitude regions, particularly
in the Himalayas by rapid melting of glaciers due to the climate change,
government of Jammu and Kashmir has adopted a focused, holistic and a proactive
approach which includes comprehensive understanding of risk landscape and the
development of robust mitigation and risk reduction strategies.
In this connection, the Focused
Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) Monitoring Committee (FGMC) constituted by
the Govt of J&K has conducted Expeditions to various such lakes to enhance
understanding and preparedness against the potential hazards.
Subsequently, geographical field
expeditions were conducted to the two glacier lakes i.e. Sheshnag and Sonsar
enroute Holy Amarnath Cave. The detailed report was shared with FGMC after the
field expedition highlighting the major findings and future possibilities for
deliberations.
As part
of the initiative, a specialized expedition team carried out the expeditions
and undertook a comprehensive study of three critical glacial lakes in the
Kishtwar district including Mundiksar Lake, Hangu Lake and Unnamed Lake in the
Kishtwar region.
The expedition provided valuable data
on the lake conditions, surrounding environmental factors, and potential risks
of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) events.
Next Expedition was carried out to
Gangabal Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake located in the northwestern
Himalayas. The expedition examined the physical and geological characteristics
of Gangabal Lake. Particular focus was given to assessing the local
geomorphology, the stability of the natural dam containing the lake, and the conditions of the glaciers feeding it.
This investigation provided critical
insights into the GLOF hazard potential of Gangabal Lake and contributed to
broader efforts to enhance climate resilience in the region.
Field expeditions for the rest of the
categorized lakes are scheduled to be carried out in the coming months
involving all concerned stakeholders.
The expeditions underscore the urgent
need for enhanced monitoring and risk management strategies to address the
growing threat of GLOFs in the Himalayas.
The insights gained will be
instrumental in formulating risk mitigation strategies and enhancing the early
warning systems in the region.
Understanding the potential GLOF
hazards associated with specific glacial lakes is crucial for risk mitigation
and disaster preparedness.
In the next phase, Department of
DMRR&R will be focusing on more scientific multi-disciplinary studies like
electric resistivity tomography, Bathymetric investigation, hydrological study
of discharge, geological studies, topography survey, susceptibility assessment
etc, and has planned to install Early Warning Systems for generating real-time
alerts and AWS for regular monitoring at most of high-risk glacial lakes in UT
of J&K in collaboration with National Disaster Management Authority and a
technical partner.
The GLOF mitigation strategy is being
implemented in phased manner in the UT involving Expedition and Data
Collection, identifying and studying glacial lakes that pose a high risk of
GLOFs based on the assessments provided by the National Disaster Management
Authority (NDMA), NRSC, CWC, etc.
Detailed data will be gathered
through bathymetric surveys, water sampling, and meteorological data
collection. Additionally, the dynamics and characteristics of these lakes will
be analyzed to determine the feasibility of lake-lowering techniques for
reducing the risk of potential GLOF events.
Secondly a Comprehensive Risk
Mitigation strategy will be devised, developing and implementing specific
mitigation measures. This includes creating comprehensive plans for lowering
the water levels of high-risk lakes identified earlier.
A fully functional Glacial Lake
Outburst Flood Early Warning System (EWS) will also be established to enhance
preparedness. Personnel will be trained in the operation and interpretation of
the EWS, ensuring effective responses to potential GLOF events. Where
necessary, the lake-lowering techniques and site specific mitigation measures
will be taken to further mitigate the risks.
Efforts to expand the mitigation
programme are being expedited. Apart from these initiatives, NDRF, SDRF and
ITBP have been sensitized to be prepared to deal with any emergent situation.
Aapda mitras have been sensitized and activated to remain vigilant in the local
areas and be prepared. Awareness generation has been specially focused. FMGC
has asked the District Disaster Management Authorities to put in place the GLOF
management plans and to be well prepared for GLOF Hazard.
Consistent and sustained efforts will
be continued by the FGMC and department of DMRRR to address the GLOF Hazard
involving all stakeholders and safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of
people.
Preparedness for safe and incident free conduct of Major Mass
Gathering events.