Hanging Glacier in Badrinath Poses Avalanche Risk to Infrastructure
Hanging Glacier in Badrinath Poses Avalanche Risk to Infrastructure
IN · Published Nov 1, 2026
• A recent study conducted by researchers from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, the Defence Geoinformatics Research Establishment (DGRE) under DRDO, and the University of Cambridge has identified a hanging glacier above Badrinath in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district as a potential avalanche risk.
• The glacier could impact 398 buildings, including critical infrastructure such as a helipad, parking areas, and roads.

Impact & Risks

The potential avalanche from the hanging glacier could severely impact nearly 400 buildings in Badrinath, including essential facilities like a helipad and roads. Agricultural land and forest cover in the vicinity are also at risk. The findings underscore the need for heightened awareness and preparedness in the region, especially given its importance as a hub for the Char Dham pilgrimage. While the threat is not immediate, the consequences of an avalanche could be significant for local residents and infrastructure.

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