Commission on Glacial Hazards submits report to CM

GANGTOK,: The Commission on Glacial Hazards, Sikkim on Saturday submitted its report to Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, recommending eight measures to strengthen the State’s preparedness and response mechanisms against glacial hazards.

The report was submitted by Commission chairperson Dr. Akhilesh Gupta during a meeting with the Chief Minister at Mintokgang. Forest and Environment minister Pintso Namgyal Lepcha was also present.

The Sikkim government had constituted the commission on September 11, 2024, in the aftermath of the devastating South Lhonak Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) of 2023.

The commission was tasked with preparing a comprehensive strategy and roadmap for mitigating glacial hazards in the Himalayan State.

The eight recommendations focus on strengthening Sikkim’s preparedness, resilience and response mechanisms against glacial hazards. “The recommendations also envision positioning Sikkim as a model Himalayan State and setting an example for effective glacial hazard mitigation across the country,” the Chief Minister’s Office said.

Congratulating Gupta and other members of the commission, the Chief Ministerlauded their efforts, expertise and commitment towards ensuring the safety and security of the people of Sikkim.

The Chief Minister said the State government would take the commission’s recommendations forward with determination and a spirit of collective responsibility.

He also stressed the need for sustained efforts to build a safer, more resilient and climate-conscious Sikkim.

Tamang expressed confidence that the initiatives arising from the commission’s recommendations would help establish Sikkim as an example of effective glacial hazard mitigation in the Himalayan region.