Change in glaciers length in the Indian Himalaya: an observation and prediction under warming scenario

Abstract

This study is to evaluate the state of snow and ice in Himalayan region. De-glaciation processes are enhanced by increase in the atmospheric temperature. Snow and glaciers are continuously experiencing negative mass balances across Himalayan arc. The retreat is most significant for the small and low altitude glaciers. Till 2000 the cumulative length of the glaciers in Himalaya had decreased by about 18% since 1970s. The regional glacier mass balance based on snout movement in Himalaya indicated, if present net mass balance perturbation continues the total length of glaciers would be lost by about 35% till 2020, whereas by 2050 the glaciers length would reduce by 40% from 1970s. This indicates that the present day negative mass balance requires a long time for glaciers to disappear. However, the results also indicated that the glaciers having low maximum altitude, low relief and fewer lengths are more prone to shrinkage than others in the Indian Himalaya.