Gangtok, Oct 17 Sikkim’s Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba on Saturday welcomed the inclusion of protection of natural springs and traditional water systems, along with measures to mitigate Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), for examination by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water Resources.
According to a statement issued by the MP’s office, the committee has listed the revival, protection and sustainable management of natural springs, aquifers and traditional water systems, with a focus on drinking water management, among its subjects for examination.
The committee will also examine the impact of climate change on the expansion of glacial lakes in the Indian Himalayan region, the growing threat of GLOFs, and measures to strengthen early warning systems and protect downstream settlements and water infrastructure.
The twin concerns are particularly significant for Sikkim, where mountain communities depend heavily on natural springs for drinking water, while expanding glacial lakes pose a serious threat to lives, settlements and infrastructure.
The statement said the drying up of springs could affect not only drinking water supplies but also the cultural and religious traditions associated with these sources, many of which are regarded as sacred by local communities.
The statement noted that protecting springs would require sustainable management of water sources and their recharge zones, alongside greater community participation.
Sikkim is also among the most vulnerable states to glacial lake-related disasters. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has identified 189 high-vulnerability glacial lakes in the Indian Himalayas, including 40 high-hazard lakes in Sikkim. Of these, 16 fall under the highest-risk category, underscoring the need for effective monitoring and early warning mechanisms.
The threat was further highlighted by the October 2023 GLOF in South Lhonak Lake, which triggered devastating floods in the Teesta basin and caused extensive damage to lives, settlements and infrastructure.
Subba thanked Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water Resources chairman Rajiv Pratap Rudy for including the two subjects in the panel’s agenda, the statement said.
“The inclusion of both subjects provides an opportunity to address the interconnected challenges of spring water security, climate change, glacial lake expansion and disaster risk in the Himalayan region,” the MP said.
He added that the committee’s examination could help strengthen policy through scientific assessment, protection of recharge zones, early warning systems, long-term monitoring and community participation.
The parliamentary review is expected to provide a platform to highlight the specific needs of Sikkim and other vulnerable mountain communities in framing policies on sustainable water management and climate resilience, the statement added.
(PTI News)
