Himachal Pradesh's Shrinking Snow Cover: A Climate Wake-Up Call

Himachal Pradesh's major river basins, Chenab, Beas, Ravi, and Sutlej, have experienced notable declines in snow cover in 2023-24 compared to previous years. The State Centre on Climate Change reports a 12.72% decrease overall. Satellite data now enables accurate mapping of snow extent, revealing significant climate shifts and potential water shortages.

Himachal Pradesh's river basins, including Chenab, Beas, Ravi, and Sutlej, have seen a 12.72% reduction in snow cover in 2023-24, down from 14.25% in 2022-23, according to a recent study by the State Centre on Climate Change under HIMCOSTE.

The early winter months (October to November) showed negative trends in the Chenab, Beas, and Sutlej basins, while Ravi saw a slight positive trend. However, significant declines were noted during peak winter in January 2024, with Sutlej down 67%, Ravi 44%, Beas 43%, and Chenab 42%.

Using satellite data, researchers have mapped the geographical extent of snow cover, revealing the higher temperatures in the Himalayan region are causing glaciers to lose mass. This shift is impacting river discharge in summer, posing potential water shortages, noted Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena.

(With inputs from agencies.)