📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Rohit Sharma
Science
Arunachal’s 32 Glacial Lakes Pose Threat to Downstream Rivers, Experts Warn
✍️ assamtribune.com
🗓 11 Sep 2026, 11:39 AM
👁 47
Scientists have identified 32 glacial lakes in Arunachal Pradesh as high‑risk, capable of sudden outburst floods that could endanger communities downstream.
Scientists working with the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing have mapped 32 glacial lakes in the high‑altitude valleys of Arunachal Pradesh that are classified as high‑risk for outburst floods.
The lakes, located between 3,000 and 4,500 meters above sea level, have been monitored for rapid expansion and the potential collapse of moraine dams. A sudden breach could release millions of cubic metres of water, flooding valleys downstream.
Local communities in the lower reaches of the Dibang and Siang rivers could face significant damage to homes, infrastructure and agriculture. The risk is compounded by the region’s heavy monsoon rainfall and increasing temperatures.
Experts urge the state government to conduct detailed hazard assessments and to install early‑warning systems along vulnerable river corridors. They also recommend community awareness programmes to prepare residents for possible flood events.
The lakes, located between 3,000 and 4,500 meters above sea level, have been monitored for rapid expansion and the potential collapse of moraine dams. A sudden breach could release millions of cubic metres of water, flooding valleys downstream.
Local communities in the lower reaches of the Dibang and Siang rivers could face significant damage to homes, infrastructure and agriculture. The risk is compounded by the region’s heavy monsoon rainfall and increasing temperatures.
Experts urge the state government to conduct detailed hazard assessments and to install early‑warning systems along vulnerable river corridors. They also recommend community awareness programmes to prepare residents for possible flood events.