 |
| Uttarakhand's GLOF Prevention: Government Action [Image Source: The Third Pole] |
The state government of Uttarakhand has recently taken proactive measures to address the imminent threat posed by Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the region. Two expert panels have been established to conduct risk assessments and monitor five glacial lakes identified as high-risk prone areas.
Understanding GLOFs:
GLOFs occur when the water levels in glacial lakes surge suddenly due to melting glaciers, posing significant hazards to surrounding areas. These phenomena are primarily triggered by glacial activities.
Early Warning Systems for GLOFs:
To mitigate the risks associated with GLOFs, advanced radio technologies have been deployed to establish early warning systems. The 'extended line of sight' (ELOS) methodology utilizes ground wave signals to transmit warning alerts from remote stations to valleys like Uttarakhand. These systems play a crucial role in preventing disasters by providing timely alerts in the event of a GLOF.
Occurrences in Uttarakhand:
Uttarakhand has experienced two major GLOF incidents in recent years, notably in the Kedarnath valley in 2013 and the recent Chamoli incident. These incidents have highlighted the vulnerability of the region to the impacts of climate change. Consequently, the government has formed committees to monitor human activities and assess disruptions caused by climate change in the valleys.
Scientific Research:
In response to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in mountainous and lowland environments, scientists are conducting research to understand the implications of climate change on GLOFs. This research aims to provide valuable insights into mitigating the risks associated with GLOFs and ensuring the safety of vulnerable communities.
By proactively monitoring and mitigating the risks associated with GLOFs, the government of Uttarakhand is taking significant steps to protect the region from potential disasters triggered by glacial activities and climate change-induced phenomena.