Himalayan Lakes: A Growing Climate Challenge

A Central Water Commission report highlights a 9.24% expansion in glacial lakes in the Himalayan region over 14 years, largely due to climate change. The report also indicates increased risks of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods, stressing the need for vigilant monitoring and disaster preparedness.

Glacial lakes in the Himalayan region have grown by 9.24% over the past 14 years, according to a Central Water Commission report, which points to climate change as a key factor.

The report showed the total inventory area of glacial lakes increased from 5.30 lakh hectares in 2011 to 5.79 lakh hectares in 2025. Monthly monitoring reveals that shrinking glaciers and expanding glacial lakes highlight global warming’s impact in the region.

The commission warns of increased risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods due to larger lake sizes, emphasizing the need for rigorous monitoring to aid disaster preparedness. Their reports are shared with authorities for early warnings and are accessible online.