22-June-2024-Special-Article

HINDU KUSH HIMALAYAS 

The Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH) are a critical mountain range that stretches approximately 3,500 kilometres across eight countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, Myanmar, and Pakistan.  

These mountains are often referred to as the “water towers of Asia” due to their role as the source of ten major river systems, including the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra. 

Importance of Snow Persistence 

• Definition: Snow persistence refers to the amount of time snow remains on the ground. 
• Importance: When this snow melts, it provides essential water to people and ecosystems. In the HKH, snowmelt is the primary source of water for streams, contributing significantly to the annual runoff in the region’s major river basins. 

Current Status of Snow Persistence in HKH 

• Recent Findings: According to a 2024 report by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), snow persistence in the HKH has reached historical lows, particularly in the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus basins. 

Specific Data: 

• Ganga basin: Lowest snow persistence in 22 years, 17% below the historical average. 
• Brahmaputra basin: 14.6% below normal in 2024. 
• Indus basin: Significant reduction in snow persistence. 
• Amu Darya basin: 28.2% below normal. 
• Helmand river: 32% below normal. 

Reasons for Reduced Snow Persistence 

Weakened Western Disturbances 

• Origin: These low-pressure systems originate over the Mediterranean Sea, the Caspian, and the Black Seas. 
• Impact: Persistently high sea-surface temperatures in these areas have weakened and delayed these disturbances, reducing winter precipitation and snowfall in the HKH region. 

Global Warming 

• Effect: Global warming has intensified and prolonged La Niña and El Niño conditions, lowering snow persistence in the HKH. 

Climate Change 

• Consequences: Rising temperatures lead to glacier retreat and altered snowfall patterns, affecting the overall snow persistence. 

Growth of Invasive Species 

• Example: Invasive species like Cirsium arvense and Trifolium repens disrupt the natural ecosystem balance, threatening native species. 

Environmental Degradation 

• Causes: Deforestation, overgrazing, unsustainable land use practices, and infrastructure development lead to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and water pollution. 

Significance of Conserving the Hindu Kush Himalayan Region 

• Water Security: The HKH provides crucial water sources for nearly one-fourth of the world’s population, supporting the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and other major rivers. 
• Energy Security: Approximately 33% of India’s thermal electricity and 52% of its hydro power depend on river waters originating from the HKH. 
• Influence on Indian Climate: The Himalayas play a key role in sustaining the Indian monsoon and preventing cold continental air masses from entering India, thereby maintaining favourable temperatures for human civilization. 
• Forest Wealth: The Himalayan forests supply fuelwood and raw materials for various industries, including medicinal plants for pharmaceuticals. 
• Cultural and Spiritual Significance: The HKH is considered sacred by multiple religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, serving as a spiritual centre. 
• Biodiversity Hotspot: Recognized globally for its rich biodiversity, the Himalayan region contributes significantly to ecological balance. 

Initiatives for Conservation 

Regional Cooperation Framework 

• Facilitated by ICIMOD, this framework promotes biodiversity, ecosystem services, and sustainable development through transboundary conservation initiatives. 

Hindu Kush Himalaya Assessment 

• This comprehensive report, launched in 2019, highlights the need for sustainable development and climate resilience in the HKH region. 

SECURE Himalaya Project 

• Part of the Global Wildlife Program funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), this project promotes sustainable management of alpine pastures and forests in the high Himalayan ecosystems. 

India’s National Mission on Sustaining Himalayan Ecosystem 

• Launched in 2010, this mission covers 11 states and 2 UTs in India, focusing on the sustainable management of the Himalayan ecosystem as part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). 

Way Forward  

• Reforestation: Planting native tree species and removing invasive species can help retain more snow on the ground, supporting snow persistence. 
• Preparation for Water Stress: Improved weather forecasting and early warning systems can help communities prepare for water scarcity. 
• Collaboration and Community Involvement: Involving local communities in decision-making processes and promoting regional cooperation are crucial for sustainable solutions. 
• Reducing Emissions: Cutting emissions is vital to mitigate rising temperatures and sea-surface temperatures, which affect snow persistence.  
• Building political will among government representatives and business leaders is essential, especially among G-20 countries that account for 81% of global emissions. 

Conclusion 

The Hindu Kush Himalayas play a pivotal role in water security, energy security, climate regulation, and biodiversity.  

The alarming decrease in snow persistence, driven by weakened western disturbances, global warming, climate change, invasive species, and environmental degradation, poses significant challenges.  

It is imperative to implement comprehensive conservation strategies, including regional cooperation, reforestation, community involvement, and emission reduction, to preserve this vital region for future generations. 

Mains Question: 

1. Discuss the critical role of the Hindu Kush Himalayas in regional water and energy security and examine the impact of reduced snow persistence on these aspects, suggesting measures for sustainable management and conservation. (150 WORDS)