Wajid Ali
Gilgit-Baltistan, with its glacier terrain and icy areas, is regarded as the pinnacle of coolness in Pakistan. It is now experiencing significant climate change, and concerns are being raised for the entire nation as well as for this region.
The week before and following December 21 is said to be the coldest, based on local history and custom; during these two weeks, the average annual temperature falls between minus five and minus ten. However, as we approach the final week of December, Skardu’s average temperature has dropped to between – three and minus five degrees Celsius. There is still no snow on the ground. A small amount of snow covers the high peaks of Skardu, whereas the entirety of the mountains is deserted. There’s risk in this circumstance.
The snowfall that occurs in November and December is extremely helpful and late; on the other hand, snowfall that occurs after mid-January is regarded as a brief guest that not only melts fast but also causes avalanches in February and March. It leads to issues as well. Because of the freeze-thaw cycle, which also freezes subsequent snow and rain, the snow before mid-January is often harder to walk on, but the snow in late winter and early spring is softer. are soft and slide off the mountain rather than adhering to the stony surface, generating a quick melting flow that brings fresh snow with it.causing avalanches and snow loss as a result. and when water is needed, the summertime water crisis begins. Particularly in those towns where irrigation with snow water is a need.
While snowfall after January tends to melt rather than strengthening and energising the glaciers in semi-precipitation, snowfall before mid-January energises the glaciers and helps maintain their ice mass balance. Weakening may result from increasing it. The health of the glaciers is in grave risk due to this scenario, which if it persists will have an impact on the development and productivity of the crops and plants linked to the concerning climate change as well as devastating floods, droughts, and other related situations.
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When winter snowfall disappears from glacial zones, it is a warning indication of hazardous climate change and something we should take seriously.
When there isn’t any snow on the ground, glaciers might be much more endangered. We must take immediate action to save them. God willing, if the existing state of affairs persists for a few more years, the current glaciers’ ice mass, or volume, may drop to one-third in eight to ten years. In order to avoid and repair the depletion of water bodies in the upper mountain areas caused by decreasing rainfall and snowfall, national, regional, and international action is needed.
In order to preserve these water reservoirs on the heights, it is necessary to manage the existing water resources effectively in order to lower the temperature and expand the area of reserves and forests. Taking the temperature down or halting it altogether could be quite challenging, so for now, at least some attention needs to be paid to the other two measures.
The growth and augmentation of glaciers is a crucial strategy for safeguarding high-altitude water bodies and reducing the impact of climate change. On a very small scale, this is initially feasible, but these hazards can be greatly reduced locally if efforts are made to support small-scale glaciers in each channel. can disperse across
The preservation of water reservoirs in Gilgit-Baltistan’s heights is essential for maintaining the region’s environment, supplying water for agriculture, and guaranteeing the welfare of the local populace. The following are some methods to assist in protecting Gilgit-Baltistan’s water reservoirs:
Protect the catchment regions that feed into the reservoirs by implementing watershed management techniques. This includes initiatives to improve water retention and stop soil erosion, such as afforestation and reforestation.
To stop soil erosion, implement soil conservation techniques including terracing and contour ploughing. This lessens sedimentation and preserves the quality of the water entering the reservoirs.
Keep a close eye on the reservoirs’ water quality to spot any possible sources of contamination. Put pollution control measures into action and make sure that the water is still fit for drinking and gardening.
Involve the neighbourhood in the conservation initiatives. Inform the public about the value of conserving water and include locals in the upkeep and monitoring of the reservoirs.
Make sure that the water distribution and storage infrastructure, including dams and canals, is kept up to date. Water leaks and waste may be avoided by scheduling routine inspections and prompt repairs.
Encourage the use of rainwater collecting strategies to collect and preserve rainfall. In dry spells, this can augment the water supply and lessen reliance on reservoirs.
To lower the amount of water needed for agriculture, promote the growth of crops resistant to drought. This might be a component of an agricultural strategy that is sustainable and takes the local water supply into account.
Enforce and improve the laws governing the use of water and the preservation of water bodies. This entails controlling industrial emissions, stopping illicit activity close to water sources, and enforcing sanctions for infractions.
Create plans for adjusting to climate change’s effects, such as altered precipitation patterns. To account for changes in water supply, this may entail modifying water management techniques.
Invest in innovation and research to find new methods and technology for effective water management at high altitudes. This may involve using satellite technology to monitor water levels, intelligent irrigation systems, and other innovations.
Cooperate to exchange information, skills, and resources for the sustainable management of neighbouring areas, national authorities, and international organisations resources for water in Gilgit-Baltistan.
By putting these techniques into practice, it will be possible to preserve the water reservoirs in Gilgit-Baltistan’s heights and guarantee the region’s residents and ecosystems would always have access to water.
