World · Singapore Bureau
Nepal to drain glacial lakes to prevent future flooding disasters
Nepal plans to undertake a major drainage project targeting four high-altitude glacial lakes this fiscal year, aiming to mitigate catastrophic flood risks in the region. The initiative follows devastating floods and landslides that claimed over 1,400 lives.
LSN Singapore ·
Kathmandu authorities have announced an ambitious plan to drain four glacial lakes positioned in Nepal's mountainous terrain, marking a significant step in the country's efforts to reduce natural disaster risks. The drainage operations are scheduled to commence during the current fiscal year, officials confirmed, with the project representing a critical response to the region's escalating flood hazards.
The initiative comes in the aftermath of recent devastating monsoon-triggered floods and landslides that swept across Nepal, resulting in more than 1,400 deaths and widespread destruction. The catastrophic events underscored the acute vulnerability of communities situated downstream from glacial lakes, which pose significant risks when they overflow or fail.
Glacial lake outburst floods, known as GLOFs, represent a growing concern across the Himalayan region as climate change accelerates glacier melting and destabilises these water bodies. Nepal's four target lakes have been identified as particularly hazardous, with their drainage expected to substantially diminish flood risk for populated areas downstream.
The drainage project is expected to be technically challenging and costly, requiring coordination between various government agencies and potentially international support. Officials did not immediately disclose the full scope of the undertaking or estimated timelines for completion of the work.