To address the growing threat of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), the Sikkim government has initiated its fourth and final expedition for 2024. Scheduled from November 27 to December 5, this mission aims to enhance climate resilience and safeguard communities from climate-induced disasters.
An official release revealed that Sikkim has identified 40 high-risk glacial lakes, attributed to rapidly retreating glaciers. Earlier expeditions focused on assessing these lakes and installing Automatic Weather and Water Level Monitoring stations at Shako Chho and South Lhonak Lake with support from the Swiss Development Corporation. These stations now deliver daily weather updates, water level data, and photographs. They are also equipped with alert systems to detect sudden water level changes.
The current expedition will advance these efforts by developing effective glacial flood mitigation strategies. Proposed measures include lowering the water level at Shako Chho Lake and constructing a retention structure at Dolma Sampa in the Lhonak Valley. The team plans a lake discharge study and subsurface geophysical analysis of the southern lateral moraine at Shako Chho.
At Dolma Sampa, comprehensive investigations will assess the subsurface geology, map topographical features, analyze debris deposits, and measure flood levels. These studies are expected to refine flood modeling and inform the design of retention structures to mitigate GLOF risks.
The Glacial Flood Mitigation expedition involves scientists and engineers from the Science and Technology Department and Mines and Geology Department, with crucial support from the Indian Army’s 27 Mountain Division and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police. Operating at an altitude of 17,000 feet in sub-zero temperatures presents significant challenges for the team.
This mission highlights Sikkim’s proactive approach to disaster risk reduction. By addressing cascading hazards exacerbated by climate change, the state aims to protect its vulnerable ecosystems and ensure community safety.
Source: PTI
