Authorities activate precautionary measures after glacier-linked flood warning; initial inspection finds no immediate danger but calls for detailed scientific monitoring
Tawang: The Arunachal Pradesh administration has intensified disaster preparedness efforts in Tawang district following warnings of a possible Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in the Mago Chu basin, a threat linked to accelerating glacier retreat and climate-driven landscape changes.
The alert was issued after the Centre for Earth Science and Himalayan Studies (CESHS) flagged concerns surrounding the Khangri Glacier and the nearby glacial lake, Neh-Goh Tso. Consequently, authorities shared advisories with the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to ensure coordinated readiness.
Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo urged residents to remain vigilant, while Superintendent of Police Tasi Darang advised communities along the Mago Chu and Tawang Chu river systems to keep emergency supplies ready and follow official updates.
A recent field inspection led by Thingbu Assistant Commissioner Thutan Wangchu, along with local residents, recorded visible glacier shrinkage at Khangri Glacier, located above 17,000 feet. Officials also assessed Neh-Goh Tso, situated at around 15,000 feet, which has been identified as a potential GLOF source.
However, the assessment found no immediate threat. Water levels remain below the moraine barrier, and the lake’s outflow currently exceeds incoming glacial meltwater, limiting rapid accumulation. Officials further noted that stable rocky terrain and broad upstream valleys could help reduce the impact of any sudden surge.
Nevertheless, authorities stressed that changing geological conditions could alter the risk. The report has recommended comprehensive studies on glacier retreat, lake volume, hydrological patterns and moraine stability to strengthen future hazard assessments.
Meanwhile, persistent rainfall has triggered severe waterlogging near the ISBT complex at Lekhi, disrupting traffic and renewing calls for improved drainage infrastructure.
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