Sikkim embarks on glacial lake risk study in Mangan district

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GANGTOK, Sikkim: The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) and the Department of Science and Technology, in collaboration with six state government departments and external experts, are launching a Glacial Lake Susceptibility Study and Community Outreach expedition to Mangan District. This initiative is scheduled to take place from August 28 to September 14.

The primary goal of the expedition is to conduct a thorough assessment of five high-risk glacial lakes in Mangan District that are susceptible to outburst floods. The team, consisting of 32 members, includes three secretaries from various departments, along with experts from Sikkim University, the Geological Survey of India, and the Central Water Commission.

This expedition is a vital measure aimed at reducing the risk of glacial lake outburst floods, which impacted the state last year. The SSDMA Relief Commissioner highlighted the government’s swift response to the disaster and the formation of a Technical Committee to evaluate the status of glacial lakes in Sikkim.

The team will carry out comprehensive studies, including analyses of sub-surface geological conditions, and will collaborate with local communities to identify areas at high risk. This expedition marks a significant effort to protect vulnerable downstream communities and infrastructure from the potential dangers posed by glacial lake outburst floods.