Glaciers in Sikkim are melting at a higher magnitude

Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG), Dehradun an autonomous research institute for the study of Geology of the Himalaya under the Department of Science and Technology, have found that glaciers in Sikkim are melting at a higher magnitude as compared to other Himalayan regions.

• The study published the climate change for the period of 1991-2015. Small-sized glaciers in Sikkim are retreating while larger glaciers are thinning due to climate change.
• Compared to other Himalayan regions, the magnitude of dimensional changes and debris growth are higher in the Sikkim.  Summer temperature rise has been prime driver of glacier changes.
  
• Accurate knowledge of magnitude as well as the direction of glacier changes, as highlighted in the present study, can lead to awareness among common people regarding water supplies and possible glacier hazards, particularly to those communities that are living in close proximity.
  
• The study can provide ample baseline data on glacier changes and systematically explore the causal relationship between glacier parameters and various influencing factors. A clear understanding of glacier state will help orienting future studies as well as taking necessary measures.