An expert team has left to survey two high-risk glacial lake sites in Uttarakhand. The team will study Saraswati Tal in Chamoli and Kedartal in Uttarkashi. Notably, Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman flagged off the team from USDMA. Moreover, the survey aims to cut risks from glacial lakes and improve disaster preparedness.
What the Glacial Lake Survey Will Study
The team will assess the present condition of both lakes. For instance, it will study water levels and changes in lake size. Also, it will examine the surrounding land and possible danger zones. Furthermore, it will assess the likely impact on areas downstream.
Height of the Two Lakes
- Saraswati Tal (Chamoli): About 5,700 metres
- Kedartal (Uttarkashi): About 4,750 metres
Clearly, both lakes lie in remote, high Himalayan terrain.
13 Sensitive Glacial Lakes
According to the Secretary, Uttarakhand has marked 13 glacial lakes as sensitive. So far, teams have surveyed four of them. Meanwhile, the rest will be studied in phases.
Early Warning Is the Key
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said timely warnings are vital in case of danger. Therefore, the state will provide modern sensors and water level gauges. Also, it will set up communication systems and other technical tools. As a result, people downstream can get alerts early.
Similarly, Disaster Management Minister Madan Kaushik said all protective steps are under way.
Experts on the Team
The team brings together several expert bodies. These include USDMA, ULMMC and the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, Lucknow. Also, it includes the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology and NIH Roorkee. In addition, SDRF, NDRF and the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering are part of it.
What Is a GLOF?
A Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) happens when a glacial lake suddenly bursts. Usually, such lakes sit behind weak walls of ice or loose rock. When the wall fails, a huge flood rushes down the valley. Hence, mapping and monitoring these lakes can save lives.
Why the Glacial Lake Survey Matters for UKPSC
Notably, disaster management is a core UKPSC topic. So, remember the two lakes, their districts and heights. Also, note the number of sensitive lakes and the agencies involved. Next, for a related story, read about the first glacial lake early warning system at Vasudhara Tal. For official updates, also visit USDMA. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
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