J&K's High-Altitude Regions Warm 1°C in Two Decades, Accelerating Glacier Melt
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Climate change & international agreements· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
A study by IIT Kharagpur revealed a 1°C temperature rise in J&K's high-altitude regions over two decades, highlighting the risk of accelerated glacier melt and water scarcity.
Background
Researchers analyzed 44 years of data to identify 'Elevation-Dependent Warming' in Jammu and Kashmir. The study found that nighttime minimum temperatures increased faster than daytime maximums, while Jammu's plains showed slight cooling due to irrigation and lack of snow cover.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TSnow-albedo feedback: A process where melting snow exposes darker surfaces, increasing heat absorption and accelerating melting.
- FactHigh-altitude regions of J&K warmed by nearly 1°C over a two-decade period.
- PlaceJammu and Kashmir: Region experiencing Elevation-Dependent Warming (EDW).
- S&TElevation-Dependent Warming (EDW): A phenomenon where higher altitudes experience faster warming rates than lower elevations.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how the snow-albedo feedback mechanism in the Himalayan region poses a significant threat to the water security and ecological stability of Northern India.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Hydrological stress: Reduced glacier melt affecting perennial river flows and drinking water availability for northern plains.
- Ecological shift: Rapid warming causing biodiversity loss and altering the phenology of high-altitude flora and fauna.
- Anthropogenic synergy: Compounding effects of unregulated construction and vehicular emissions on localized mountain warming.
Keywords: Snow-albedo feedback · Elevation-Dependent Warming · Glacial retreat · Climate adaptation · Hydrological security
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