Gangotri Glacier Has Lost 10 Percent Snow Melt Flow in Four Decades

Gangotri Glacier has experienced a significant 10% reduction in snow melt flow over the past four decades, primarily due to climate change. This matters for UPSC aspirants as it connects to General Studies Paper 1 and 3, covering topics like environmental geography and climate change impacts. Last Updated: 2025-09-01

Key Facts About Gangotri Glacier

• Gangotri Glacier lost 10% of snow melt flow in 40 years.
• Study conducted by IIT Indore and international collaborators.
• Overall snowmelt water has decreased due to rising temperatures.
• Research published in the Journal of the Indian Society of Remote Sensing.
• Snowmelt supplies 64% of annual flow, followed by glacier melt (21%).
• Snowmelt share declined from 73% (1980-90) to 63% (2010-20).
• Increased snowmelt proportion from 52% (2000-10) to 63% (2010-20).
• Mean temperature rose by 0.5°C from 2001-2020.
• Peak discharge shifted from August to July.
• Long-term trends show decreasing snow cover and increasing temperatures.
• Himalayan glaciers losing thickness at 46 cm annually.
• Gangotri Glacier's snout is steadily receding.
• Future studies will further explore glacier dynamics.
• Findings highlight the impact of climate change on water resources.
• Gangotri Glacier is vital for the Ganga River watershed.
• Research underscores broader environmental changes in the Himalayas.

Impact of Climate Change on Himalayan Glaciers

The Gangotri Glacier's reduction in snow melt flow is a microcosm of the broader impacts of climate change on the Himalayan region. This glacier is crucial for the Ganga River, which supports millions of people in northern India. The rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns threaten India's water security and agricultural productivity, aligning with the country's strategic goals of sustainable development and climate resilience.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Aims to promote sustainable development while addressing climate change.
• National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem: Focuses on conserving the Himalayan environment and addressing the impacts of climate change.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 1: Geography - Physical geography of India, including glaciers.
• GS Paper 3: Environment and Ecology - Climate change and its impact on water resources.
• Prelims: Questions on the location and significance of Gangotri Glacier.
• Mains: Analytical themes on climate change impacts and water resource management.
• Essay Paper: Topics on environmental changes and sustainable development.

FAQ Section

• What is Gangotri Glacier?
  Gangotri Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas, located in Uttarakhand, India. It is a primary source of the Ganga River.
• Why is Gangotri Glacier important?
  It is crucial for the Ganga River watershed, providing water resources for millions in northern India. Its changes reflect broader environmental impacts due to climate change.
• What are the key features of the recent study on Gangotri Glacier?
  The study highlights a 10% reduction in snow melt flow over 40 years, a 0.5°C rise in mean temperature, and a shift in peak discharge from August to July.