GB moves to establish Glaciers Protection Authority

Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Advocate Amjad Hussain announced on Saturday the creation of a Glaciers Protection Authority to address escalating climate change challenges in the region. The authority aims to protect glaciers and secure support from international organizations.

A specialized committee will be formed to develop comprehensive recommendations for the authority's establishment. Hussain emphasized the importance of forestry in mitigating climate change and safeguarding glaciers during a briefing by the GB Forest and Wildlife Department.

This initiative comes as rapid glacier melt intensifies the environmental crisis in Gilgit-Baltistan. Rising temperatures are increasing water discharge and mudflows in local rivers, causing damage to downstream areas. The Pakistan Meteorological Department issued a widespread alert for potential glacial lake outburst floods (Glofs) in GB and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, citing a new westerly wave and above-normal daytime temperatures in glaciated valleys.

The department warned that the combination of warming and precipitation will accelerate snow and ice melt, leading to dangerously high river levels and the potential expansion of existing glacial lakes or formation of new ones. Residents and visitors in vulnerable areas were advised to stay away from riverbanks and monitor water bodies for changes.

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Forestry is important to mitigate climate change impacts and for protection of glaciers.