INDIA: Water flow in Rivers likely to be Affected
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The studies conducted by the Geological Survey of India indicate that the glaciers of Himalaya are receding at varying rates in different regions. The likely impacts include changes in the river hydrology, increased debris production and siltation of rivers in downstream regions.

The National Action Plan on Climate Change which was launched in June 2008, includes a National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system. A new research centre on Himalayan Glaciology has been established at Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun. This Mission and the Centre have the objective of addressing the issues relating to Himalayan glaciers.

The Government has developed Guidelines and best practices for Sustaining Himalayan Eco-system (G-She), which has been shared with all State Governments in the Himalayan Region.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Environment and Forests (independent charge) Shri Jairam Ramesh in a written reply to a question by Shri Tariq Anwar and Ms. Sushila Tiriya in Rajya Sabha today.