Tso Kar, one of Ladakh's iconic high-altitude lakes, has lost nearly 70%
GS1History · Society · Geography· Physical geography (landforms, oceans, climate)· Prelims + Mains·
High-altitude wetland conservation and nature-based solutions: a relevant GS1 and GS3 topic.
Why in news
The Union Territory administration of Ladakh launched a project to revive Tso Kar lake by channeling glacier water from Rupsho Kharnak to counter a 70% loss in lake area over the last decade.
Background
The project uses gravity and natural depressions to channel water from Rupsho Kharnak into Tso Kar. Work commenced on September 2, with initial flows of around 20 cusecs recorded by mid-September.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceTso Kar: A high-altitude lake located in the Union Territory of Ladakh.
- FactTso Kar has lost nearly 70% of its area over the last decade.
- FactInitial water flow for the restoration project is recorded at around 20 cusecs.
- EnvironmentThe project aims to restore grasslands for Pashmina goat herders and create wetland habitats for birds.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the Tso Kar lake restoration project in Ladakh, consider the following statements:
- The project aims to restore grasslands for Pashmina goat herders.
- The lake has lost nearly 90% of its area over the last decade.
- The project uses gravity and natural depressions to channel water from Rupsho Kharnak.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)3 only
- (b)1 and 2 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only — Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: The lake has lost nearly 70% of its area.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the ecological and socio-economic implications of shrinking high-altitude lakes in the Himalayan region and evaluate the efficacy of nature-based restoration strategies.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Ecological degradation: Loss of high-altitude wetlands impacting migratory bird habitats and local biodiversity
- Livelihood vulnerability: Shrinking water bodies threatening the pastoral economy of Pashmina goat herders
- Climate adaptation: Balancing artificial water diversion with natural hydrological cycles in fragile alpine ecosystems
Keywords: High-altitude wetlands · Glacial retreat · Nature-based solutions · Pastoral livelihoods · Ecological restoration
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