Uttarakhand's Glaciers Are Melting Rapidly, Study Flags Threats
GS1History · Society · Geography· Physical geography (landforms, oceans, climate)· Prelims + Mains·
Cryosphere degradation and water security: a key GS1 Geography and GS3 Disaster Management topic.
Why in news
A Discover Geoscience study highlighted that 23 major glaciers in Uttarakhand are melting rapidly, threatening water security and increasing disaster risks.
Background
The study identified 23 major glaciers in Uttarakhand, including Gangotri, Khatling, and Milam, showing significant retreat. The Milam glacier was recorded melting at a rate of 37.8 meters per year due to rising temperatures and geographical settings.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceGangotri, Khatling, and Milam glaciers are located in Uttarakhand, India
- FactThe Milam glacier is melting at a rate of 37.8 meters per year
- FactA total of 23 major glaciers in Uttarakhand were identified as melting rapidly in the study
Prelims practice question
With reference to the melting of glaciers in Uttarakhand, consider the following statements:
- The Milam glacier was recorded melting at a rate of 37.8 meters per year.
- A total of 23 major glaciers in Uttarakhand were identified as melting rapidly.
- The study identified only 10 major glaciers in Uttarakhand showing significant retreat.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2 only
- (d)1 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only — Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: The study identified 23 major glaciers.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the implications of accelerated Himalayan glacial retreat on India's water security and disaster management strategies.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Hydrological instability: Reduced perennial flow affecting downstream irrigation and hydropower generation
- Geomorphological hazards: Increased risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and debris flows
- Transboundary water stress: Impact on water-sharing agreements with neighboring countries
Keywords: Glacial retreat · Cryosphere degradation · Water security · Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) · Climate vulnerability
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.