CWC Report: Himalayan Lakes Growing, 50 In J&K At Risk

2025-10-23 09:02:39

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer)
Representational photo

Srinagar- Glacial lakes and other water bodies in the Himalayan region have grown by 9.24% over the past 14 years, highlighting the visible impact of climate change, according to a report by the Central Water Commission (CWC).

The total area of glacial lakes and water bodies increased from 5.30 lakh hectares in 2011 to 5.79 lakh hectares in 2025. The CWC's Monthly Monitoring Report, which tracks water bodies in the Himalayas, notes that shrinking glaciers and expanding lakes are among the clearest signs of global warming in the region.

Over the 14-year period, 1,435 glacial lakes and water bodies showed an increase in their water spread, while 1,008 recorded a decrease. Using high-resolution Sentinel satellite data via Google Earth Engine, the CWC monitors 2,843 lakes across the Himalayan belt.

Within India, 428 lakes have expanded and require vigorous monitoring for disaster preparedness. Jammu & Kashmir accounts for 50 of these lakes, while Ladakh has 133, Himachal Pradesh 13, Uttarakhand 7, Sikkim 44, and Arunachal Pradesh 181. The total water spread in Indian glacial lakes rose from 1,995 hectares in 2011 to 2,445 hectares in 2025, a 22.56% increase.

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