The Swiss Agency for Cooperation and Development (SDC) in collaboration with the Sikkim State Government and the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), is supporting the establishment of an integrated early warning and response system (EWS) for GLOFs, with a focus on South Lhonak and Shako Cho lakes in Sikkim State of India. These efforts take place in the framework of SDC’s project “Strengthening Climate Change Adaptation in the Himalayas”. The initiative involves technical experts from Switzerland based organizations including Geotest and Geoprevent working closely with the Indian Government representatives as a significant example of technical cooperation.
This pilot initiative, which includes hazard and risk assessments and the installation of monitoring stations, is a crucial first step towards preparedness.
From 19th October to 5th November 2024, a significant expedition to two high-risk glacial lakes in Sikkim - South Lhonak Lake and Shako Chho - was organized. This collaborative effort involved the Swiss experts, the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA), the Sikkim Department of Science and Technology (DST) and a team of state experts, showcasing a commitment to disaster preparedness and glacial lake monitoring. The expedition involved installation of an upgraded monitoring station with a pressure probe at South Lhonak lake, and upgrading of the functional station at Shako Cho lakeinstalled in 2023.
The upgraded monitoring systems at both lakes are now operational, providing critical data on daily weather parameters, lake water pressure, and capturing real-time imagery. This effort strengthens the development of early warning systems, which is a crucial component in mitigating the risks posed by potential Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).The Early Warning System (EWS) designed by Swiss experts, once implemented, has the potential to provide critical data and alerts, significantly enhancing resilience in the face of climate-related hazards.
