Glacier mass balance estimation in Garhwal Himalaya using improved accumulation area ratio method

Water requirements of the mountain communities living in the Himalaya are supported by snow and glacier melt. The availability of water from the source depends on numerous climatic and glacier parameters. One key parameter is mass balance, which helps to assess the glacier health and future water availability. We have used the improved accumulation area ratio (IAAR) method to estimate mass balance in Alaknanda and Bhagirathi basins, constituting 1055 glaciers covering similar to 1609 km(2). The mean Equilibrium Line Altitude (ELA) of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi basins are estimated as 6147 +/- 130 and 5985 +130 m.a.s.l, respectively. The mass balance is estimated using the accumulation area ratio (AAR)-mass balance relationship. The mean specific mass balance of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi for 2001-2013 is estimated as -1.1 +/- 0.03 m.w.e.a(-1) and -1.01 +/- 0.07 m.w.e.a(-1), respectively. Total mass loss from the study area is calculated as similar to 21.4 +/- 1.1Gt during this period. The loss of glaciers in the mountain area will increase the vulnerability of communities living in the region. It suggests a need for better adaptation strategies to improve the resilience of high mountain communities.

Automated summary

This article investigates the water requirements of mountain communities in the Himalayas and the impact of glacier melt on water resources. By estimating mass balance, the authors assess the health of glaciers and future water availability. The findings suggest that the loss of glaciers will increase the vulnerability of communities in the region, highlighting the need for improved adaptation strategies to enhance resilience.