Himalayan glaciers are now losing mass 65% faster than they were a decade ago, heightening the risk of disasters linked to glacial lakes, melting ice, and unstable slopes, according to a new report.
Black carbon, originating from sources such as brick kilns in South Asia, contributes approximately one-third of the accelerated glacier melt. The report assessed 189 high-risk glacial lakes in India, classifying 56 as very high risk, exposing downstream communities and infrastructure.
The report calls for enhanced glacier monitoring, early-warning systems, action on black carbon emissions, spring revival, improved forest management, and a new development model for the region. A significant monitoring gap exists, with less than 0.1% of the Hindu Kush-Himalayan region’s 40,000 glaciers regularly monitored.
Source: Down To Earth