The study found that glacier mass loss has accelerated in recent decades, while only 21 glaciers are currently monitored on the ground. Scientists warn that the region is approaching “peak water” by mid-century — a stage when glacier-fed river flows are expected to reach their maximum before gradually declining.
The retreating glaciers are also leaving behind unstable glacial lakes, increasing the danger of glacial lake outburst floods. Nearly 200 glacial lakes in India have been identified as high-risk, including 56 classified as very high risk.
The warning comes shortly after a major glacier collapse along the Nepal-Tibet border triggered landslides and flash floods, causing widespread destruction and significant loss of life.
Scientists say improved glacier monitoring, early-warning systems and climate adaptation measures are urgently needed to protect communities, agriculture, hydropower and water supplies across the Himalayan region.
News as reported
