A multidisciplinary team of experts in
geology, ecology, engineering,
hydrology, and remote sensing from
the Department of Science and
Technology, Department of Mines and
Geology, and the National Disaster
Management Authority recently
conducted a seven-day expedition in
Sikkim's Lhonak Valley to explore
strategies for mitigating glacial flood
risks.
During the study of the 2023 glacial
flood, the team observed that the
flood's intensity decreased as it moved
through widened valley sections,
reducing its destructive impact. They
also analyzed subsurface geology and
measured river discharge to assess
the feasibility of constructing a
retention structure at Dolma Sampa,
which could help regulate floodwaters
and protect critical infrastructure.
Despite harsh weather conditions and
freezing temperatures, the team
successfully gathered valuable data
that will contribute to future flood