Glacial Collapse in Nagar, Gilgit-Baltistan: A Stark Warning from Climate Change By Ahsan wahid

ISLAMABAD, Mar 17 (EPI): A Disaster in the Mountains

A massive glacier collapse in Nagar, Gilgit-Baltistan, has once again highlighted the devastating effects of climate change. The once-majestic ice structures of Pakistan’s northern regions are disappearing at an alarming rate. With nearly 30% of glaciers already lost, the threat of environmental catastrophe looms large.

Glaciers Melting at an Alarming Rate

Pakistan is home to one of the largest glacial reserves outside the polar regions. However, climate change has triggered rapid glacier melting, leading to an increase in glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), avalanches, and water shortages.

Scientific studies reveal that:

Pakistan’s glaciers have shrunk by nearly 30%.

Glacial retreat is accelerating, destabilizing mountain slopes.

More glacial lakes are forming, increasing the risk of sudden floods.

The collapse in Nagar is just another reminder of the climate crisis Pakistan faces.

Deforestation and Rising Temperatures

Glacier loss isn’t happening in isolation. Deforestation and rising temperatures are major contributors to this environmental disaster.

Deforestation: Large-scale tree cutting has removed natural barriers, making the land more vulnerable to rising temperatures and erosion.

Rising Temperatures: Over the past few decades, temperatures in Gilgit-Baltistan have increased by 1.5 to 2°C, intensifying glacial melt.

Erratic Weather Patterns: Longer summers, shorter winters, and unpredictable rainfall are disturbing the region’s natural freeze-thaw cycle.

The Consequences of Glacier Loss

The people of Gilgit-Baltistan depend on glaciers for freshwater, agriculture, and hydropower. As glaciers disappear, the consequences are dire:

Water Scarcity: Melting glaciers mean less freshwater for drinking and irrigation.

Increased Floods: Sudden glacial lake outbursts put entire villages at risk.

Livelihood Disruptions: Farmers and local communities face economic uncertainty, forcing many to migrate.

What Can Be Done?

While the situation is dire, action can still be taken:

Massive reforestation programs to restore lost green cover.

Implementation of climate policies to reduce carbon emissions.

Strengthening local disaster management to mitigate flood risks.

Investment in sustainable water conservation techniques to prepare for future shortages.

A Race Against Time

The collapse of glaciers in Nagar is not just a local issue; it’s a warning for Pakistan and the world. If immediate action isn’t taken, Pakistan’s northern regions will face an irreversible environmental disaster. The time to act is now—before it’s too late.

Ends-Exact Press International-