Expanding Ghepan Lake Poses Severe Threat to Himachal Villages

A study has highlighted the risk posed by the expanding Ghepan Lake in Himachal Pradesh, which could flood 34 downstream villages. Triggered by climate change, the lake's enlargement over the decades threatens areas like Sissu. Authorities are setting up early warning systems to mitigate potential disasters.

Researchers have raised alarms over the rapidly growing Ghepan Lake in Himachal Pradesh's Lahaul and Spiti, suggesting a looming threat to 34 downstream villages, including the popular tourist destination of Sissu. The expansion is linked to climate change-induced glacier melting and poses a severe risk of catastrophic flooding.

A joint investigation by Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority and National Remote Sensing Centre of ISRO finds the lake's size has nearly tripled since 1989. Kiran Bhadana, a district official, is leading efforts to implement early warning systems to safeguard these communities. With training initiatives underway, the focus is on emergency evacuation plans.