Sikkim launches final expedition to assess high-risk glacial areas

The Sikkim government launched its final expedition of the year, aiming to assess high-risk glacial lakes in the region's high-altitude areas. 

As per an official release, the expedition, which is the fourth one will work towards the development of effective glacial flood mitigation strategies to address climate-induced risks.

The expedition team is exploring two mitigation proposals — lowering the lake water level at Shako Chho and a retention structure at Dolma Sampa.

Accordingly, a lake discharge study, subsurface geophysical study, topographical mapping, debri deposition analysis and flood level measurements will be taken up by the expedition team from November 27 to December 5, the release said.

In the earlier expeditions, comprehensive assessment of several high-risk lakes was completed.

Additionally, automatic weather and water level monitoring stations have been installed at Shako Chho and South Lhonak Lake with support from the Swiss Development Corporation.

The monitoring stations have started providing daily weather data, water level data, photographs. They also have in-built alert systems in case of sudden water level changes.

The study will help refine mathematical modelling glacial floods and designing of retention structures.

The participants of the expedition include scientists and engineers from the Science and Technology Department, the Mines and Geology Department, National Disaster Management Authority and the United Nations Development Programme, supported by the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police.

The team’s main challenge will be the high altitude of 17,000 feet and sub-zero temperatures. The team has already reached Thangu after offering prayers in the Lachen Monastery, jointly with the Lachen Dzumsa.

This expedition underscores the Sikkim government’s commitment to proactively address glacial hazards and safeguarding the communities and the ecosystem, the release said.