Understanding the Melting of Himalayan Glaciers in India

Understanding the Melting of Himalayan Glaciers

The Himalayan glaciers are facing a critical situation, with alarming rates of melting and retreating. This issue has drawn attention from the Indian government, which acknowledges that “a majority of Himalayan glaciers are observed to be melting or retreating at various rates in different regions.”

Consequences of Melting Glaciers

The potential consequences of these glaciers melting are severe and multifaceted:

• Reduced Water Sources: The shrinking glaciers threaten water availability for millions of people.
• Decreased River Flow: The Ministry of Jal Shakti warns of a “long-term reduction in melt-water,” which could lead to lower river flow during dry seasons.
• Threat to Major Rivers: Major rivers such as the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus are particularly at risk.
• Impact on Gangotri Glacier: The Gangotri Glacier, which feeds the sacred Ganga, is retreating at a staggering rate of 18.8 meters per year.

Major Rivers Threatened by Melting Glaciers

The rivers at significant risk due to glacier melting include:

• Ganga
• Brahmaputra
• Indus

Government Response to Glacier Melting

In response to these alarming developments, the Indian government has initiated several measures:

• National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Launched in 2008, this plan includes the National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE) and the National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change (NMSKCC).
• NMSHE Objectives: This mission aims to monitor the Himalayan ecosystem, assess vulnerabilities, and enhance scientific and technological capacities for climate adaptation.
• NMSKCC Role: It promotes strategic climate knowledge, supports research, and improves national preparedness to address challenges posed by climate change.
• Scientific Monitoring: Institutions like the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, ISRO, and the Geological Survey of India conduct ongoing studies and satellite observations of glaciers.
• Protected Areas: National parks and biosphere reserves such as Gangotri National Park and Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve are integral to preservation strategies.
• Community-Led Innovations: Local projects, like the Ice Stupa initiative in Ladakh, aim to store water by freezing it during winter for use in spring, addressing seasonal water shortages.

Future Actions Needed

To effectively tackle the challenges posed by melting glaciers, further actions are necessary:

• Enhanced monitoring systems to accurately track glacier melt rates.
• Stronger climate policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Water conservation campaigns in regions dependent on glacier-fed rivers.
• Development of alternative water sources to lessen reliance on glacier melt.
• Increased funding for research on glacier behavior and climate impacts.
• Cross-border cooperation with neighboring countries sharing the Himalayan river systems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the primary concern regarding Himalayan glaciers in India?
Answer: The primary concern is the alarming rate at which Himalayan glaciers are melting or retreating, impacting water availability and ecosystems.

Q2. What are the potential consequences of the melting glaciers?
Answer: Consequences include reduced water sources, decreased river flow during dry seasons, and threats to major rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus.

Q3. What is the rate of retreat of the Gangotri Glacier?
Answer: The Gangotri Glacier is retreating at a significant rate of 18.8 meters per year, which poses risks to the water supply for millions.

Q4. What initiatives has the Indian government launched to address this issue?
Answer: The Indian government has launched the National Action Plan on Climate Change, focusing on monitoring ecosystems and promoting climate adaptation strategies.

Q5. What further actions are recommended to combat glacier melting in the Himalayas?
Answer: Suggested measures include improved monitoring systems, stronger climate policies, and community-led water conservation efforts to address water scarcity.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the main cause of concern regarding Himalayan glaciers?
A) Climate change impacts
B) Increased tourism
C) Industrial pollution
D) Urban development
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: Which major river is significantly affected by glacier melting?
A) Yamuna
B) Ganga
C) Krishna
D) Godavari
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: How fast is the Gangotri Glacier retreating?
A) 10.5 meters per year
B) 15.2 meters per year
C) 18.8 meters per year
D) 20.3 meters per year
Correct Answer: C