Nepal plans to drain four glacial lakes to reduce flood risks
by@Reuters
Summary
Nepal is set to drain four glacial lakes this fiscal year to mitigate flood risks following a catastrophic disaster that claimed over 1,400 lives and left thousands missing after a glacier collapse in August. The initiative, part of a $50 million climate project supported by the Green Climate Fund and the United Nations Development Programme, aims to prevent breaches of the lakes' natural dams, which could lead to further devastating floods. This project combines engineering measures with community preparedness and flood forecasting systems to enhance resilience against glacial lake outburst floods, which are becoming increasingly dangerous due to climate change-induced glacier retreat in the Himalayas.
Analysis
Nepal: Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia situated along the Himalayan mountain range. The government is launching studies and engineering work this fiscal year to drain water from four high-altitude glacial lakes in central and eastern regions to lower the risk of outburst floods. Balendra Shah: Balendra Shah is the Prime Minister of Nepal. He has publicly highlighted the impacts of climate change on the country following recent floods and advocated for international attention to Nepal's vulnerability despite its low emissions. Sanjeeb Baral: Sanjeeb Baral is the executive director of the Centre for Hydrology and Water Resources Research. He is directing the timeline and scope of the drainage efforts, which will include community resilience measures after initial studies. Subash Tuladhar: Subash Tuladhar is an expert at Nepal's Centre for Hydrology and Water Resources Research. He is involved in explaining the project's goals of lowering lake levels through regulated canals to protect downstream areas from flooding. Samjwal Ratna Bajracharya: Samjwal Ratna Bajracharya is a retired expert from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development specializing in glaciers and glacial lake outburst floods. He has commented on the urgency of reducing lake levels to mitigate risks from earthquakes, avalanches, and climate factors. Centre for Hydrology and Water Resources Research: The Centre for Hydrology and Water Resources Research is a Nepalese government research organization focused on water resources and hydrology. It is overseeing the design, studies, and implementation of the glacial lake drainage project, including installation of sensors and flood warning systems. Disaster Response: The project combines engineering interventions with flood forecasting systems and community preparedness to build resilience against glacial lake outbursts. Climate Change Impact: Rising temperatures are causing Himalayan glaciers to retreat and form unstable lakes held by loose rock and ice that threaten valleys below. International Collaboration: The initiative draws on support from international organizations including the United Nations Development Programme for funding and expertise.
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