Scientists at GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment in Almora have begun studying Kumaon’s Milam Glacier, the second largest in the state after Gangotri Glacier.
Milam Glacier is situated 61 km from Munsiyari (Uttarakhand), standing at an elevation of 4,250 meters above sea level and it’s one of the famous Glacier Trek in Uttarakhand. It serves as the origin point for the Gori Ganga, a significant tributary of the river Kali. The glacier’s importance lies in its contribution to the region’s water resources.
The study’s primary objective is to understand the changes occurring in the Milam Glacier due to global warming. Scientists aim to collect precise data on the glacier’s retreat, the alteration in river flow, the rate of melting, the shift since formation, and the broader impact of climate change on the Kumaon region.
Scientists have visited the glacier to gather necessary information for the first-of-its-kind study. The study encompasses a comprehensive analysis of various factors, including the changing surface height of the glacier and its annual decrease. Prior research on the area has indicated a concerning trend—the Milam Glacier is melting.
Understanding the dynamics of Milam Glacier is crucial for predicting future water resource availability and the potential impact on river systems. The study’s outcomes will contribute to developing strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change in the Kumaon region.
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