Gangtok: The Sikkim High Court has urged the Central and State governments to install early warning systems for 40 high-risk glacial lakes in Sikkim.
The move aims to prevent dangerous Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and protect people living in vulnerable areas. The Court highlighted the October 2023 South Lhonak Lake disaster and stressed the need for better disaster preparedness, regular monitoring and faster warnings.
Sikkim High Court Calls For Glacial Lakes Warning System Implementation
On November 5, 2026, a Division Bench of the Sikkim High Court, comprising Chief Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque and Justice Bhaskar Raj Pradhan, discussed the growing risks posed by glacial lakes in the State.
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The Court was hearing a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) titled In Re: Climatic Justice In The State Of Sikkim.
The Bench urged both the Central and State governments to take immediate steps to purchase and install early warning systems for the 40 high-risk glacial lakes.
The Court observed that similar systems were already being used in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and neighbouring Bhutan to reduce the risk of glacial lake disasters.
Why Are Glacial Lakes Warning System Important For Sikkim
Glacial Lake Outburst Floods, commonly known as GLOFs, occur when water stored in a glacial lake suddenly escapes due to the failure of a natural or artificial barrier.
These floods can release huge amounts of water, rocks and debris into downstream areas within a short time.
They can destroy roads, bridges, buildings, dams and agricultural land. People living near rivers and mountain valleys face a serious risk.
The Court stressed that proper warning systems could help authorities identify danger early and give nearby communities more time to move to safer places.
October 2023 South Lhonak Lake Disaster Raised Serious Concerns
The Court referred to the devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood at South Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim in October 2023.
The disaster triggered massive flooding along the Teesta River and caused widespread destruction in Sikkim and downstream areas.
The floods damaged the Chungthang Dam, washed away bridges and parts of National Highway 10, and affected several districts. Several people lost their lives.
The incident showed how dangerous glacial lake flooding can be for Himalayan communities and infrastructure.
It also highlighted the need for better monitoring, disaster planning and early warning arrangements.
Court Considers Five Nodal Officers To Monitor 40 Glacial Lakes
The High Court also considered a proposal to appoint five dedicated nodal officers to improve the monitoring and safety of the 40 high-risk glacial lakes.
The proposal was presented by Advocate Sudhir Mishra, who is assisting the Court as an amicus curiae.
Under the proposed arrangement, one senior nodal officer would work within the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA).
Four additional officers would assist the senior officer, with each officer responsible for monitoring ten glacial lakes.
Their proposed responsibilities would include:
- Coordinating early warning arrangements.
- Monitoring glacial movements and changes in lake conditions.
- Improving disaster preparedness and emergency planning.
- Collecting important information from government departments.
- Identifying vulnerable populations and areas.
- Coordinating action between different government agencies.
The proposal aims to create a clear system of responsibility for monitoring dangerous glacial lakes.
Glacial Lakes Warning System: Court Seeks Government Response On Existing Safety Measures
The Court asked the Sikkim government to explain what steps have been taken to reduce the risks associated with the 40 high-risk glacial lakes.
It also asked the State to consider the proposal for appointing dedicated nodal officers and take necessary action.
The Bench took note of existing arrangements, including the High-Level Steering Committee, Multi-Disciplinary Task Force and Sikkim Commission on Glacial Hazards.
The State government was asked to provide information about the work and progress of these bodies. The matter is scheduled for its next hearing on November 18, 2026.
40 High-Risk Glacial Lakes Identified In Sikkim
According to information discussed during the proceedings, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has identified 40 high-hazard glacial lakes in Sikkim. Of these, 16 have been placed in the highest-risk category.
Studies by the Sikkim government have also identified three particularly concerning glacial lake areas in North Sikkim:
- Shako Chho Lake.
- North and South Lhonak Lakes.
- Gurudongmar Lake cluster.
The State’s Department of Science and Technology, along with other government departments and Central agencies, has studied several highly vulnerable lakes. However, many of these locations are situated above 17,000 feet, making field visits and safety operations extremely difficult.
The challenging mountain conditions make reliable monitoring and early warning arrangements even more important.
Court Also Raises Concerns Over Climate Change And Black Cardamom Farming
Apart from glacial lake safety, the High Court also discussed the impact of climate change on Sikkim’s black cardamom cultivation.
The Court referred to concerns about warmer winters and unpredictable rainfall, which are affecting black cardamom plantations and increasing their vulnerability to diseases.
Black cardamom is an important source of income for many rural households in Sikkim.
The Bench asked the State government to explain the steps taken under its ‘Mero Alaichi, Mero Dhan’ (My Cardamom, My Wealth) initiative. The programme aims to support and revive black cardamom cultivation in the State.
The Court observed that climate change could create several serious problems and that these issues needed to be addressed properly.
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FAQs
The National Disaster Management Authority has identified 40 high-hazard glacial lakes in Sikkim. Of these, 16 are classified in the highest-risk category.
The Sikkim High Court has urged the Central and State governments to install early warning systems for 40 high-risk glacial lakes to reduce the danger of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods and prevent disasters similar to the October 2023 South Lhonak Lake incident.
A Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) occurs when water suddenly escapes from a glacial lake after its natural or artificial barrier fails. It can cause severe flooding, damage infrastructure and threaten lives in downstream areas.
