A new study has identified serious risks from unstable hanging glaciers in the Central Himalaya, raising concerns about potential avalanches and downstream disasters.
Researchers from the Indian Institute of Science, Indian Institute of Technology, and Defence Research and Development Organisation examined glaciers in the Alaknanda basin of Uttarakhand, an important source region of the Ganga river. The study found 219 hanging glaciers spread across nearly 72 square kilometres, with an estimated ice volume of 2.39 cubic kilometres.
Hanging glaciers are located on steep mountain slopes and can break off suddenly, making them highly dangerous. The study noted that rising temperatures and changing weather patterns are increasing their instability. Even small ice masses in such locations can trigger large avalanches and impact downstream areas.
Researchers also highlighted a growing concern over increased human activity in high-altitude regions, which raises exposure to such risks.
The findings underline the need for careful monitoring and planning in vulnerable Himalayan regions to reduce the impact of possible natural hazards.
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