Glaciers

Glaciers are vast, slow-moving bodies of ice formed from years of accumulated snowfall that compresses into dense ice masses. They play a vital role in regulating the Earth’s climate and act as natural freshwater reservoirs. In Pakistan, glaciers are primarily found in the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush mountain ranges — making the country home to the largest number of glaciers outside the polar regions.

Importance of Glaciers

Glaciers serve as a critical source of water for rivers such as the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab, which sustain agriculture, hydropower generation, and domestic needs across Pakistan. During warmer months, glacier melt provides a steady flow of water, supporting millions of people downstream.

Glacial Monitoring and Research

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) monitors glaciers and related hydrological processes through ground observations, satellite data, and climate models. PMD’s Glacier Monitoring and Research Program focuses on:

• Assessing glacier health and mass balance

• Studying glacial lake formation and potential outburst floods (GLOFs)

• Understanding the impact of climate change on glacier retreat and water availability

Climate Change and Glacier Retreat

Climate change poses a significant threat to Pakistan’s cryosphere. Rising temperatures have accelerated the melting of many glaciers, leading to increased water flow in the short term but potential long-term shortages. The formation of glacial lakes and the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) have also increased, endangering downstream communities and infrastructure.

PMD’s Role in Adaptation and Early Warning

PMD actively collaborates with national and international organizations to enhance glacier observation networks, develop early warning systems, and support community-based adaptation in vulnerable mountain regions. Continuous glacier monitoring helps policymakers make informed decisions about water resource management and climate resilience.