The Sikkim government has initiated its fourth and final expedition of the year to assess high-risk glacial lakes in the state’s high-altitude regions. Running from November 27 to December 5, this critical mission aims to develop effective mitigation strategies for glacial floods exacerbated by climate change.
According to an official release, the expedition focuses on two key proposals: lowering the water levels at Shako Chho and constructing a retention structure at Dolma Sampa. “This mission is a step forward in proactively addressing glacial hazards that pose significant risks to both communities and ecosystems,” the release stated.
The expedition team includes scientists and engineers from Sikkim’s Science and Technology Department, Mines and Geology Department, the National Disaster Management Authority, and the United Nations Development Programme, with support from the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police. Their work will involve lake discharge studies, subsurface geophysical surveys, topographical mapping, debris deposition analysis, and flood level measurements.
Earlier expeditions assessed several high-risk glacial lakes, resulting in the installation of automatic weather and water level monitoring stations at Shako Chho and South Lhonak Lake, with support from the Swiss Development Corporation. These monitoring systems provide real-time weather and water level data, photographic updates, and built-in alert systems for sudden water level changes.
“This study will help refine mathematical models of glacial floods and assist in designing retention structures,” a senior official explained.
The team faces extreme conditions at altitudes of 17,000 feet and sub-zero temperatures. Before beginning their journey, they offered prayers at the Lachen Monastery alongside the Lachen Dzumsa.
