Guwahati: Arunachal Pradesh has started strengthening its disaster response capabilities with specialized training on bathymetry survey technology, which is used to evaluate potential Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) dangers, after 32 glacial lakes were designated as high-risk.
Under the National GLOF Risk Management Program, the Arunachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority organized a three-day practical training program that began on Saturday.
According to an officials, the initiative is to strengthen the technical competence of authorities and specialists who will participate in upcoming inspections of the state’s vulnerable glacier lakes.
The curriculum included field exercises and data collection activities at Ganga Lake after classes on the use and operation of bathymetry survey equipment.
The training was attended by officials and experts from the India Meteorological Department, the Geological Survey of India, the Arunachal Pradesh Space Application Center, the Water Resources Department, the State Disaster Management Authority, and the district disaster management authority.
Bathymetric surveys are crucial for evaluating the dangers posed by unstable glacial lakes and for developing mitigation strategies,according to a joint director of the APSDMA who addressed the session. He pointed out that the authority had to purchase its own bathymetry survey equipment because previous attempts to conduct such research had failed because of administrative difficulties.
The official also emphasized the lack of qualified technical specialists in the field and urged departmental collaboration for upcoming surveys and mitigation initiatives.
Stress was also laid on the need for Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) studies to assess the internal structure and stability of moraine dams surrounding glacial lakes. The APSDMA said such scientific assessments are necessary for effective disaster risk management and for designing suitable mitigation measures.
The training program is part of the state’s broader effort to prepare for possible GLOF incidents amid growing concerns over the expansion of several glacial lakes and the risks they pose to downstream communities.
Additionally, the necessity of Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) investigations to evaluate the stability and internal structure of moraine dams around glacial lakes was emphasized. According to the APSDMA, such scientific evaluations are essential for developing appropriate mitigation strategies and for managing catastrophe risk effectively.
The training program is an integral part of the state’s broader initiative to get ready for potential GLOF disasters in light of growing concerns about the risks that numerous glacial lakes’ growth poses to populations downstream.