Expanding glacial lakes which need supervision: CWC , Pg8

Key Highlights:

• The Central Water Commission (CWC) reports that India's glacial lake area increased by over 30% since 2011.
• Glacial lake area expanded from 1,917 hectares to 2,508 hectares.
• The report's release coincides with widespread flooding events across India.

Detailed Insights:

• The expansion of glacial lakes increases the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), posing threats to downstream communities and infrastructure.
• Factors contributing to glacial lake expansion include rising temperatures and glacier melt due to climate change.
• Monitoring and management strategies are crucial to mitigate GLOF risks, including early warning systems and infrastructure improvements.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Glacial Lake: A body of water that originates from glacier melt.
• Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF): A sudden release of water from a glacial lake, often caused by the failure of its natural dam.