Guwahati, July 06: The Science and Technology Department of the Government of Sikkim have found significant scientific findings during the two-week scientific expedition to the East Rathong Glacier, conducted from June 22 to July 4.

This expedition forms part of the department’s ongoing study on glacier dynamics and the assessment of potential glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) risks.

The team, comprised of scientists and researchers, was divided into two groups at Dzongri. The first team, led by Dr. Narpati Sharma, Scientific Officer, conducted a bathymetric study at Tikip La, Bhaley Pokhari, and Rathong Lake using an unmanned survey vehicle (USV) – a pioneering effort in the Indian Himalayan states.

The second team, led by Dr. R.K. Sharma, Assistant Scientific Officer, focused on studying the glacier dynamics of East Rathong Glacier, which included stake installation to monitor glacier velocity and vertical retreat, glacio-hydrology of glacier meltwater streams, and a DGPS survey. Additionally, the expedition undertook the maintenance and upgrade of an automatic weather station installed at Rathong Glacier.

Significant scientific findings were made during the surveys of the glacial lakes. Tikip La was found to have a maximum depth of 55 meters and lacks a defined open outlet, although its water appears downstream in the valley. Bhaley Pokhari and Rathong Lake were found to have maximum depths of 42 meters and 25.4 meters, respectively, with both lakes having clear-cut outlets. Volume assessment of these lakes is presently being carried out.

These initiatives underscore the department’s commitment to climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction in Sikkim. The data collected from these surveys will play a crucial role in shaping strategies to mitigate potential GLOF risks and in leveraging science and technology for the sustainable development of the state.

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