Astronomy & Space Sciences
Title : | Study of glacier change in the Himalaya and its climatic implications using remote sensing |
Area of research : | Astronomy & Space Sciences |
Focus area : | Glacier dynamics, Glacier geomorphology, Glacial Hazards |
Contact info : | pratima@iirs.gov.in |
Details
Executive Summary : | The direct and indirect impact of glacier response to climate change affect society and mankind and hence makes it important to assess the changes of Himalayan glaciers to climate change. Assessment of glacier changes to climate change is necessary for preparation of countermeasures for glacier variation and related impacts. Despite the importance of the study, very few report are available on the vulnerability of Himalayan glaciers. Under rising temperature and changing precipitation scenario, rapidly retreating glaciers are giving rise to glacial lakes and accelerating the growth of existing glacial lakes. Sudden discharge of water associated with loose debris from these lakes known as the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) causes catastrophe in the downstream. Every country in the Himalayan region is affected by GLOF events. Further, the ice, snow, rock avalanche and mass movement from glaciers pose serious threat to people living in the high mountain region. It is therefore important to study and address the problem in totality using Remote Sensing, GIS and allied space technology. |
Co-PI: | Dr. Pratima Pandey, Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), Dehradun |
Organizations involved