Environment News

High Risk Glacial Lakes - Sikkim

September 8 , 2026 15 hrs 0 min 21 0

Sikkim has identified 40 high-hazard glacial lakes, including 16 in the highest-risk Category A for possible Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
Glacial lakes form from melting glaciers and accumulated meltwater; GLOFs occur when these lakes suddenly burst due to triggers such as excess water or earthquakes.
Shako Chho Lake has been identified as the most vulnerable to a GLOF; Sikkim is preparing mitigation measures for it.
Sikkim's Department of Science and Technology has been the nodal department for GLOF hazard assessment and mitigation since February 2025.
Sikkim is working on what could be India's first dedicated GLOF Risk Mitigation Protocol, while satellite imagery, remote sensing and early-warning sensors are being used for monitoring.