In an effort to mitigate the risks posed by Glacier Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA), along with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), conducted a pioneering expedition to South Lhonak and Shako Chu Lakes from October 19 to November 5. The mission was celebrated as a milestone in GLOF risk assessment for Sikkim, addressing hazards from glacial lakes across Lachen, Lachung, and West Sikkim.
At a press conference in Gangtok, Namrata Thapa, Sikkim’s Secretary and Relief Commissioner, emphasized the state’s proactive steps toward disaster resilience, spotlighting initiatives under the Sikkim Himtal Mission, Surakshit Sikkim, and Samrath Sikkim. These initiatives focus on empowering communities, training locals, and reducing dependence on external assistance.
Dr. Sandeep Tambe, Secretary of Science and Technology, shared that Sikkim has identified 16 high-risk glacial lakes out of 320. He detailed a strategic four-step testing and mitigation approach, including the construction of check dams and other infrastructure suited to Sikkim’s challenging terrain. The Swiss delegation praised Sikkim’s resilience and provided support with new technology, including pressure-sensitive probes for lake monitoring. SDC’s Pierre-Yves Pitteloud underscored Switzerland’s commitment to Sikkim’s sustainable development, highlighting enhanced local training and equipment usage.