CWC Report: Himalayan Glacial Lakes Saw Over 10% Area Expansion from 2011 to 2024

Current Context: The Central Water Commission (CWC) report titled "Himalayan Glacial Lakes Expansion: 2011-2024" was released on November 3, 2024.

• This comprehensive report details the significant changes in Himalayan glacial lakes over 13 years, highlighting a notable 10.81% increase in their area.
• This expansion is primarily attributed to climate change, which is causing glaciers to melt at an accelerated rate.
• Key Insights:
• Climate Change Impact: Rising temperatures are the main driver behind the accelerated melting of glaciers, leading to larger and more numerous glacial lakes.
• Risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs): The report underscores the increased risk of GLOFs, which occur when the natural dams holding these lakes give way, resulting in sudden and potentially devastating floods downstream.
• Monitoring and Mitigation: The report calls for enhanced monitoring of these glacial lakes and the implementation of risk management strategies to prevent and mitigate the impacts of GLOFs.

Question:

1 According to the Central Water Commission (CWC) report titled "Himalayan Glacial Lakes Expansion: 2011-2024," by what percentage did the area of Himalayan glacial lakes increase between 2011 and 2024?

• A) 5.23%
• B) 8.67%
• C) 10.81%
• D) 12.54%

Answer: C) The report highlights a 10.81% increase in the area of Himalayan glacial lakes over the 13-year period, which is primarily attributed to climate change and accelerated glacial melting.