For almost two decades, the number of glacial lakes in Bhutan is considered to be over 2,500 with over 20 potentially dangerous lakes. However, with an inventory on glacial lakes compiled by the National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) recently, only 17 lakes are identified as potentially dangerous of over 500 lakes. According to the centre, the number is considered important as it serves as a primary source of information for any scientific studies as well as a basis for various socio-economic developmental planning in the country.
In the past, all lakes above the elevation of 3,500 metres above sea level were considered glacial lakes. Over 2,500 lakes were identified back in 2001 by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development. However, with the new inventory by the NCHM, lakes that fall above the elevation of 3,500 meters and not more than 2 kilometres from glaciers were considered glacial lakes. The dynamic feature of the lakes calls for a proper study of the lakes such as how the lakes are behaving with climate change and know how the lakes are interlinked to glaciers.
“This is a very important report considering that Bhutan does not have much scientific information. The information on glaciers and climate is very limited, particularly in the eastern Himalayas. This report is not only important for water resource management or other disaster risk reductions but it will globally contribute to the global Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report. It is very important to know how the glaciers, particularly the snows contribute to the water resource of Bhutan,” said Karma Dupchu, the Director for NCHM.
With the change in climate, the glaciers are melting, posing threat to valleys downstream. However, the NCHM said the risks of colossal disasters are minimal with its early warning systems in place.
“We have also updated the list of the potentially dangerous lakes and at present, we have 17 potentially dangerous lakes. The good thing is where there is a maximum number of potentially dangerous lakes, like Punatsangchhu, we already have early warning systems in operation and we are monitoring it round the clock,” he added.
Glacial lakes in Bhutan play a vital role in the livelihood of the Bhutanese people as a paramount source of water supply. With the official report, researchers, historians, tourist guides, and academicians will also have a reference in the inventory.
Tshering Dendup
