Danger of Hanging Glaciers in Central Himalaya Sparks Environmental Concerns

The National Green Tribunal is addressing the threat of hanging glaciers in the central Himalaya, as highlighted by a study. The glaciers pose risks of avalanches and downstream disasters, exacerbated by rapid development in high-altitude areas. Responses from various governmental and environmental bodies are being sought.

The National Green Tribunal has raised alarms over the threat posed by hanging glaciers in the central Himalaya, demanding responses from the Centre and other entities.

In a suo motu hearing sparked by a newspaper report, the Tribunal highlighted a study shedding light on these environmental dangers. The NGT emphasized concerns that unstable hanging glaciers on steep mountain slopes could trigger catastrophic avalanches and downstream disasters, particularly in populated areas.

The researchers' warning was based on evaluations conducted by teams from the Indian Institute of Science, IIT Bhubaneswar, and DRDO Chandigarh. They reported that rapid development in high-altitude areas of Uttarakhand, a critical Ganga headstream region, is escalating human exposure to these dangers. Utilizing satellite imagery and avalanche simulations, the study revealed potential threats to settlements like Mana and Badrinath. The Tribunal has notified several environmental and governmental bodies to respond by August 6.