SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government has intensified its efforts to address the growing risks posed by Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) by enhancing monitoring and mitigation strategies across the region.
In an official communication from the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction, it was revealed that a series of scientific expeditions have been conducted to improve understanding and preparedness against these natural hazards.
As part of these initiatives, a specialised expedition team led by Dr Sunil Dhar from the Department of Environmental Sciences, Central University of Jammu, carried out an extensive study of three critical glacial lakes in the Kishtwar district: Mundiksar, Hangu, and an unnamed lake. In parallel, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) conducted a thorough assessment of Bram Sar Lake in Kulgam, while the Department of Geography and Disaster Management at the University of Kashmir examined two other glacial lakes earlier this year in June.
“These expeditions provided invaluable data on lake conditions, environmental factors, and potential GLOF risks,” stated the document. The findings are expected to play a key role in formulating targeted risk mitigation strategies and enhancing early warning systems in the region.
The government’s GLOF mitigation strategy is set to be implemented in two distinct phases. Phase I involves expeditions and data collection to identify high-risk glacial lakes, guided by assessments from agencies such as the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), and the Central Water Commission (CWC). Phase II will focus on executing specific mitigation measures.
The plan includes the establishment of a fully operational Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Early Warning System (EWS), with personnel trained in its operation and data interpretation. In cases of imminent threat, lake-lowering techniques will be deployed to mitigate risks effectively.
Notably, in April 2024, the Jammu and Kashmir government formed a Focused Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Monitoring Committee (FGMC) to concentrate on mitigation strategies in response to the dangers posed by glacial lake overflows. (KNO)
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