GLOF Hazard: J&K Govt Adopts Comprehensive, Targeted and Proactive Strategy for Risk Mitigation
Amid the rising threat of sudden breaches in high-altitude glacial lakes, particularly in the Himalayas, caused by accelerated glacier melting due to climate change, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has implemented a focused, holistic, and proactive approach to mitigate and manage associated risks. This approach is anchored in a thorough understanding of the region’s risk landscape and the development of robust mitigation strategies.
In line with this initiative, the Focused Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) Monitoring Committee (FGMC), constituted by the J&K Government, has undertaken expeditions to several glacial lakes to deepen scientific understanding and bolster preparedness for potential hazards.
Field expeditions were carried out to two glacial lakes—Sheshnag and Sonsar—located along the route to the holy Amarnath cave. A detailed report highlighting key findings and future considerations was submitted to the FGMC following the survey.
Additionally, a specialized expedition team studied three critical glacial lakes in the Kishtwar district—Mundiksar, Hangu, and an unnamed lake—collecting crucial data on lake conditions, surrounding environmental factors, and GLOF risk potential.
Another high-altitude expedition was conducted to Gangabal Lake in the northwestern Himalayas. The team closely examined the lake’s geomorphology, the structural stability of its natural dam, and the status of the feeding glaciers. The findings provided essential insights into Gangabal Lake’s GLOF hazard potential and contributed to regional climate resilience efforts.
Further expeditions to other categorized lakes are scheduled in the coming months, with full participation from relevant stakeholders.
These efforts underscore the urgent need for enhanced monitoring systems and advanced risk management strategies to confront the growing GLOF threat in the Himalayas. The insights gathered will directly inform the formulation of targeted mitigation strategies and the strengthening of early warning systems across the region.
Recognizing the importance of detailed scientific analysis, the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction (DMRR&R) is now advancing into the next phase. This includes multidisciplinary studies such as electrical resistivity tomography, bathymetric investigations, hydrological discharge assessments, geological surveys, topographical mapping, and susceptibility analysis. Plans are also underway to install Early Warning Systems (EWS) and Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) at the most vulnerable glacial lakes in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and a technical partner.
The GLOF mitigation strategy is being executed in a phased manner, beginning with data collection and expedition efforts. High-risk glacial lakes, as identified by NDMA, NRSC, CWC, and other expert agencies, are being studied using bathymetric surveys, water sampling, and meteorological data collection. Further analysis of lake dynamics will help determine the feasibility of lake-lowering techniques aimed at reducing potential GLOF risks.
In the second phase, a Comprehensive Risk Mitigation Strategy will be developed and implemented. This includes creating detailed plans for controlled water-level reduction at vulnerable lakes and other targeted interventions based on the initial findings.
A fully operational Early Warning System (EWS) will also be deployed to ensure timely alerts and effective response mechanisms. Field personnel will be trained in EWS operation and data interpretation to ensure swift and coordinated action in case of emergencies. Where needed, site-specific mitigation measures, including lake-lowering interventions, will be undertaken.
The government is accelerating efforts to expand the mitigation programme. Specialized disaster response forces such as the NDRF, SDRF, and ITBP have been sensitized to ensure readiness for any emergent situation. Community volunteers, including Aapda Mitras, have also been mobilized to stay alert and support local response efforts. Public awareness campaigns have been emphasized as a key component of preparedness.
The FGMC has instructed District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) to develop and implement localized GLOF management plans and maintain a state of readiness.
The Department of DMRRR, along with FGMC and all concerned stakeholders, remains committed to sustained efforts to address the GLOF hazard and ensure the safety and resilience of communities across Jammu and Kashmir.
These initiatives also form a critical part of the preparedness strategy for the safe and incident-free conduct of major mass gathering events in the region.
