Hanging Glaciers: 219 Ice Dangers Found in Uttarakhand, Scientists Warn of Collapses
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Climate change & international agreements· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
Scientists identified 219 hanging glaciers in Uttarakhand's Alaknanda basin at risk of collapse due to rapid warming, highlighting a significant glacial hazard.
Background
A study by IIT Bhubaneswar identified 219 hanging glaciers covering 71.7 ± 3.5 sq km in the Alaknanda basin. Approximately one-third of these glaciers are classified as unstable due to rising temperatures.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceAlaknanda basin is a major glacial basin in the Uttarakhand Himalayas.
- S&TGlabTop2 is the tool used by researchers to map and identify hanging glaciers.
- BodyWadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) is a premier institute for Himalayan geological studies.
- BodyUttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA) is the nodal body for disaster mitigation in the state.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the impact of climate change on Himalayan glacial stability and suggest measures for disaster risk reduction in the Himalayan region.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)
- Downstream socio-economic impact
- Early warning systems
- Climate adaptation strategies
Keywords: Glacial instability · Climate change · Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) · Himalayan ecology · Hazard mapping
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