Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Itanagar: Authorities in Arunachal Pradesh have initiated emergency preparedness measures in the Tawang district following warnings of a potential Glacial Lake Outburst Flood. The alert, issued by the district disaster management department, follows findings from the Centre for Earth Science and Himalayan Studies regarding the instability of the Khangri Glacier due to rapid melting.
The Tawang district administration is coordinating with the Indian Army, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, and the Border Roads Organisation to monitor the situation. Tawang Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo has urged residents to maintain vigilance, while Superintendent of Police Tasi Darang advised those near the Mago Chu and Tawang Chu river systems to keep emergency supplies ready for any eventuality.
A ground inspection of the Khangri Glacier and the nearby Neh-Goh Tso lake revealed significant ice loss. While initial observations suggest the lake's water levels remain stable, officials warn that rapid environmental changes could alter the risk profile quickly. The assessment report stated, "The lake's water level remains well below the moraine dam and water is flowing normally through its outlet into the Mago Chu river."
While immediate danger appears limited due to the lake's stable outlet and the topography of the surrounding valleys, experts are calling for comprehensive scientific studies. These investigations would focus on glacier retreat, water volume, and the structural integrity of moraine dams to better prepare for climate-related threats in the Himalayan region.
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