KATHMANDU: The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) has released data showing that 42 glacial lakes in Koshi Province are currently in a highly dangerous condition.
The findings were presented by ICIMOD expert Sharad Prasad Joshi during an interaction program titled “Risks Arising from Rapid Changes in Nepal’s Glaciers and Glacial Lakes” held today in Khandbari, the headquarters of Sankhuwasabha district. He cited a 2020 report that outlines the escalating risks.
According to Joshi, Nepal has a total of 2,069 glacial lakes, of which 42 highly vulnerable lakes are located in the Koshi region alone. He warned that a glacial lake outburst could cause massive loss of lives, property, and infrastructure, stressing the need for heightened alertness and preparedness.
In Sankhuwasabha district alone, four glacial lakes in the Bhote Khola and Makalu regions fall under the high-risk category. Among them, the Thulopokhari glacial lake in the Lower Barun area is considered the most dangerous. The lake is estimated to be around 3 km long and about 206 meters deep, with surrounding areas ranging from 15 to 25 meters in depth, he said.
Joshi informed that a risk-reduction initiative is being implemented for four glacial lakes through a collaboration between Nepal’s Department of Hydrology and Meteorology and UNDP Nepal. The Thulopokhari lake in Lower Barun is also included in the mitigation plan.
He warned that a potential glacial lake outburst could directly threaten many settlements and infrastructure along the Arun Valley. Additionally, 13 glacial lakes flowing in from the Tibetan side also pose potential risks to the northern region.
During the program, ICIMOD’s Neera Shrestha Pradhan said that people with disabilities, women, and children are the most vulnerable during disasters, noting that targeted awareness and capacity-building programs are being conducted for them.
Sankhuwasabha District Coordination Committee Chief Suman Shakya stressed the need for immediate and effective steps to ensure the sustainable management of high-risk glacial lakes.
Chief District Officer Sirjana Thapaliya and other stakeholders participated in the event, which included in-depth discussions on glacial lake management, risk reduction, and local preparedness.
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