Nepal's Efforts to Drain Glacial Lakes Highlight Risks for Himalayan Region
Nepal's Efforts to Drain Glacial Lakes Highlight Risks for Himalayan Region
IN · Published Sep 6, 2026
Nepal has initiated the 'GLOF Sanjeevani Project' to address the growing threat of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) caused by climate change.
The project aims to drain four glacial lakes, with preparatory steps such as environmental impact assessments and refined design work underway this year.

Impact & Risks

The Himalayan region, including Nepal and northern India, faces compounded risks from climate change, geological instability, and earthquakes. Expanding glacial lakes increase the likelihood of GLOFs, which can cause catastrophic flooding, loss of life, and damage to infrastructure. The Chamoli flood in Uttarakhand highlighted the devastating impact of such events, with over 200 fatalities. Communities living downstream of glacial lakes are particularly vulnerable, and the risks are exacerbated by the lack of comprehensive mitigation measures.

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