ID:
S_175
Permafrost and Rock Glacier Assessment in the Hindu Kush Himalaya: Advancing Techniques and Knowledge
Lead Convener
Sheikh Nawaz Ali Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, 53-University Road, Lucknow, India. snawazali@gmail.com
Co Convener(s)
Milap Chand Sharma Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India. milap@jnu.ac.in Pratima Pandey Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehradun, India. pandeypreetu@gmail.com Anshuman Bhardwaj School of Geosciences, University of Aberdeen, Scotland. anshuman.bhardwaj@abdn.ac.uk Lydia Sam School of Geosciences, University of Aberdeen, Scotland. lydia.sam@abdn.ac.uk
Session Keywords
Permafrost, Rock Glaciers, Cryosphere Hazards, Hydrological Resilience, Hindu Kush Himalaya
Commission
TERPRO
Abstract Category
Glaciers/Cryosphere
Session Description
The Hindu Kush Himalayan Region (HKHR) hosts vast high-altitude permafrost, vital for streamflow regulation, ecosystems, and millions of livelihoods. Permafrost and rock glaciers act as natural freshwater reservoirs. Yet, climate-driven thaw, elevation-dependent warming, and albedo loss are accelerating permafrost degradation, glacier retreat, and cryosphere-related hazards. About 45% of Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra flows come from meltwater, supporting ~500 million people. As glacial melt declines and cryosphere dynamics become uncertain, water stress intensifies, especially in high-altitude zones where populations have grown 250% since 1961. Despite its importance, permafrost in HKHR remains understudied. This session invites studies on permafrost and rock glaciers—focusing on hydrology, movement, stability, and hazards—using geophysical, remote sensing, modeling, and indigenous knowledge. We also welcome insights on socio-economic vulnerabilities, community adaptations (e.g., Ice Stupas), and long-term monitoring. Our goal is to bridge knowledge gaps, foster global collaboration, and integrate science with policy for resilient mountain futures.
