A recent study by the State Centre on Climate Change has revealed a significant decline in snow cover in Himachal Pradesh's major river basins. The Chenab, Beas, Ravi, and Sutlej basins saw a 12.72% decrease in snow cover in 2023-24 compared to the previous year.
During the early winter months of 2023-24 (October to November), the Chenab, Beas, and Sutlej basins showed negative trends in snow cover, whereas the Ravi basin showed a marginal increase, reflecting a positive trend. However, the results for the peak winter months indicated significant declines in all the basins - 67% in Sutlej, 44% in Ravi, 43% in Beas, and 42% in Chenab in January 2024, according to the study conducted by the State Centre on Climate Change, under the aegis of the HP Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (HIMCOSTE).
In February, a positive trend was observed in all basins, with an increase in snow cover, continuing into March 2024. Based on the analysis, it was observed that the decline was 15.39% in the Chenab basin, 7.65% in Beas, 9.89% in Ravi, and 12.45% in Sutlej in 2023-24, leading to an overall decline of 12.72%, Director-cum-Member Secretary (HIMCOSTE) DC Rana said.
The study highlights the significance of monitoring snow cover in the state, which is a vital indicator of climate change and its impact on water resources, agriculture, and the ecosystem. The decline in snow cover can have far-reaching consequences, including reduced water supply, affected agricultural productivity, and altered ecosystems.
"We have information about the total snowfall during the winter season from the various observatories operating throughout the State but its spatial extent reflecting that how much area is under snow, cannot be ascertained. But it has now become possible to map the geographical extent of the area covered under snow during winter season from October to April by using satellite data of different resolutions," Rana said.
Based on various studies, the temperature in the Higher Himalayan Region is comparatively higher than the low-lying areas, which is affecting Himalayan reserves, evidenced by the fact that most of the glaciers are losing mass, Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena said.
A significant shift in snowfall patterns during winters has also been observed, affecting river discharge during the peak summer season, Saxena said.
Shimla has experienced almost negligible snow spells during the last two winters, indicating major changes in weather patterns and if this continues, water shortages may occur in the coming years, he added.
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