In a major revelation, a new scientific study has found that a section of the Eastern Himalayas in Arunachal Pradesh has lost 110 glaciers over a period of 32 years due to climate change. The research, conducted by scientists from Nagaland University and Cotton University, highlights the alarming rate of glacial retreat in the region, raising concerns about the environmental impact and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).
Study Highlights Massive Glacier Loss in Arunachal Pradesh
According to the study, published in the Journal of Earth System Science, glaciers in the Eastern Himalayas have been retreating at an unprecedented rate. The findings indicate that 309.85 sq. km of glacial area has disappeared at a retreat rate of 16.94 sq. km per year between 1988 and 2020.
The study used remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to map the changes in glacier distribution across several districts of Arunachal Pradesh, covering areas from Tawang to Lohit. Researchers also referred to the Randolph Glacier Inventory to analyze the glacial loss patterns.
Alarming Reduction in Glacier Count
One of the most concerning findings of the study is the drastic reduction in the number of glaciers in Arunachal Pradesh. The research states that the total number of glaciers has declined from 756 in 1988 to 646 in 2020, representing a rapid glacial retreat rate exceeding the global average.
Why Are Glaciers Retreating?
The study identifies several factors contributing to the loss of glaciers in Arunachal Pradesh, including:
- Rising global temperatures: The increase in average surface temperatures due to climate change is a major factor behind the rapid melting of glaciers.
- Geographical factors: Most of the glaciers studied are located at an altitude of 4,500–4,800 meters above sea level, with north-facing slopes ranging between 15° and 35°, making them highly vulnerable to temperature variations.
- Impact of smaller glaciers: The study found that smaller glaciers (under 5 sq. km) are shrinking the fastest, indicating that glacial fragmentation is a major concern.
Impact of Glacial Retreat in the Eastern Himalayas
The rapid disappearance of glaciers in Arunachal Pradesh poses severe environmental risks, including:
1. Increase in Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)
As glaciers melt, they form glacial lakes, which are highly unstable. The sudden bursting of these lakes can lead to catastrophic floods, threatening local communities and infrastructure.
2. Disruption of River Systems
Glaciers play a critical role in feeding major river systems such as the Brahmaputra River. Their decline could lead to irregular water flow, affecting agriculture, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation.
3. Loss of Biodiversity
The Eastern Himalayas are a biodiversity hotspot, home to unique flora and fauna. The changing glacial landscape could lead to habitat loss, impacting species that rely on cold-climate ecosystems.
Challenges in Studying Glacial Retreat in Arunachal Pradesh
Despite the importance of glaciers, studying their retreat and impact in the Eastern Himalayas has been difficult due to:
- Challenging terrain: The rugged mountainous landscape makes on-ground observations difficult.
- Limited technological access: The region has fewer research stations, limiting continuous data collection.
- Lack of long-term studies: The study is one of the few detailed analyses focusing on glacier loss in Arunachal Pradesh.
What Can Be Done to Mitigate Glacial Retreat?
To address the growing climate crisis and protect glaciers in Arunachal Pradesh, experts suggest:
- Strengthening climate policies: Governments must take proactive measures to reduce carbon emissions and implement sustainable development plans.
- Enhancing research efforts: Investing in remote sensing technology and climate monitoring stations can help scientists track glacial changes in real time.
- Disaster preparedness: Communities living in high-risk areas must be equipped with early warning systems to mitigate the impact of GLOFs and climate-related disasters.
- Promoting global awareness: International organizations and climate forums should recognize the threats facing Himalayan glaciers and push for global climate action.
The loss of 110 glaciers in Arunachal Pradesh over 32 years is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of climate change. With glaciers retreating at an alarming rate, the risk of glacial lake outburst floods, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss continues to rise.
Immediate policy interventions, scientific research, and climate action are needed to mitigate further glacial loss and protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem from irreversible damage.