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9 September 2026

Climate change and glacial collapse risks

The report provides critical data on glacial retreat and GLOF risks in the Himalayas, which is a direct and recurring theme in UPSC GS1 and GS3 regarding climate change, environmental degradation, and disaster management in the Indian subcontinent.

1 min read Day 2 of 2 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • Chinese researchers report a significant link between global warming and glacial retreat on the Tibetan Plateau.
  • Glacial area on the Tibetan Plateau has decreased from 51,000 sq. km to 39,000 sq. km over the last 60 years.
  • Glaciers in the southern part of the plateau, including the Himalayas, Gangdise, and Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains, have shrunk by approximately 40% in six decades.
  • The overall shrinkage of glaciers across the entire Tibetan Plateau is recorded at 24%.
  • Melting glaciers have led to an increase in the number and size of glacial lakes, with over 14,000 now mapped on the plateau.
  • Researchers warn of heightened risks of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and landslides, particularly near the southern borders of China.
  • Experts emphasize the urgent need for enhanced mapping of glacial lakes and international data sharing to mitigate downstream disaster risks.

Part of a longer story

This is day 2 of 2 in Himalayan and Tibetan Plateau Glacial Retreat, which has been running since 13 August 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. The rapid retreat of Himalayan glaciers poses significant transboundary disaster risks. In this context, discuss the necessity of regional cooperation and data sharing for disaster mitigation in the Hindu Kush-Himalayan region. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) represent an emerging threat to the ecological and socio-economic stability of the Himalayan ecosystem. Analyze the drivers of this phenomenon and suggest a framework for integrated disaster management to protect downstream communities. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which of the following is identified as the primary driver for the dramatic reduction in glacial area on the Tibetan Plateau over the past six decades?

  2. What is the primary disaster risk associated with the rapid expansion of glacial lakes on the Tibetan Plateau?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-09-09/climate-change-and-glacial-collapse-risks