The Indian government is monitoring 2,485 glacial lakes in the Himalayan region, with 56 identified as very high risk for potential Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
Itanagar, India Jul 24, 2026 ALN: The Centre on Thursday announced that it is actively monitoring 2,485 glacial lakes, each covering more than 10 hectares, across the Indian Himalayan river basins utilizing advanced remote sensing techniques. This initiative reflects the increasing recognition of the potential hazards posed by glacial lakes, particularly in the context of climate change and its impact on glacial melt rates.
The monitoring of glacial lakes is crucial, given that they can lead to catastrophic events, such as Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). These floods occur when water from a glacial lake suddenly releases, often due to the failure of the natural dam holding the water, which can be caused by several factors, including melting ice, heavy rainfall, or seismic activity. GLOFs have been responsible for significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure in various parts of the world, particularly in mountainous regions.
The government has classified 56 of these glacial lakes as “very high risk” following a scientific assessment conducted in 2025. This classification underscores the urgent need for risk management strategies to protect communities living in proximity to these lakes. The assessment was part of a broader effort to understand the dynamics of glacial lakes in the Indian Himalayan Region, which is home to some of the largest glaciers in the world and is experiencing rapid glacial retreat due to climate change.
In a written response to the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Raj Bhushan Choudhary, stated that the Central Water Commission (CWC) oversees the monitoring of these glacial lakes across four states and two Union Territories from June to October each year. This period coincides with the monsoon season, which can significantly influence the stability of glacial lakes and the potential for outburst floods.
Choudhary mentioned that the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in partnership with national scientific agencies, performed a detailed assessment of 189 high-risk glacial lakes in the Indian Himalayan Region during 2025. This assessment was crucial in identifying which lakes posed the greatest threat to downstream communities and infrastructure, allowing for targeted interventions.
“Based on the assessment, 56 glacial lakes were classified as very high risk due to their potential to trigger Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and the vulnerability of downstream communities and infrastructure,” the minister elaborated. The implications of these findings are significant, as they highlight the need for immediate action to mitigate the risks associated with these high-risk lakes.
To address these risks, the government has initiated the establishment of GLOF Early Warning Systems (EWS) at selected high-risk glacial lakes within the Indian Himalayan Region. Early warning systems are essential in providing timely alerts to communities at risk of GLOFs, allowing them to evacuate and take necessary precautions. However, Choudhary noted that currently, no comprehensive GLOF EWS has been commissioned under the National GLOF Risk Mitigation Programme (NGRMP).
The NDMA is implementing the NGRMP, which was approved in 2024, covering Himachal , Uttarakhand, and Sikkim, with an allocated budget of Rs 150 crore. This programme aims to conduct Hazard and Risk Assessments, establish Monitoring and Early Warning Systems, implement site-specific structural and non-structural mitigation measures, and enhance community awareness and capacity building. The comprehensive approach of the NGRMP is designed to not only address the immediate risks posed by glacial lakes but also to foster long-term resilience among communities at risk.
“The programme aims to conduct Hazard and Risk Assessments, establish Monitoring and Early Warning Systems, implement site-specific structural and non-structural mitigation measures, and enhance community awareness and capacity building,” he explained. This multifaceted strategy is critical in ensuring that communities have the knowledge and tools necessary to respond effectively to potential GLOF events.
Choudhary also mentioned that Rs 52.50 crore has been allocated specifically for the Monitoring and Early Warning System component of the NGRMP. This investment is intended to bolster the technological capabilities required to monitor glacial lakes and provide timely warnings to at-risk populations.
Additionally, the NDMA, in collaboration with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA), has conducted multi-agency expeditions to the high-risk South Lhonak and Shako Cho glacial lakes in Sikkim during 2023 and 2024. These expeditions aim to facilitate scientific investigations and develop effective monitoring, early warning mechanisms, and mitigation strategies. The collaboration with international agencies highlights the global nature of the challenges posed by climate change and the importance of sharing knowledge and resources across borders.
The implications of these efforts extend beyond immediate disaster risk management. By investing in monitoring and early warning systems, the Indian government is taking a proactive stance in addressing the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities. As glacial lakes continue to evolve due to warming temperatures, the need for robust monitoring and response strategies will only grow. The integration of scientific research, community engagement, and technological innovation will be vital in ensuring the safety and resilience of communities living in the shadow of these glacial lakes.
In conclusion, the government's initiative to monitor and assess glacial lakes in the Indian Himalayas represents a critical step in disaster risk management. By identifying high-risk lakes and establishing early warning systems, the government aims to protect vulnerable communities from the potentially devastating impacts of GLOFs. As climate change continues to affect glacial dynamics, ongoing monitoring and adaptive management will be essential to safeguard lives and infrastructure in the region.
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