Khandbari, Sankhuwasabha — Forty-two glacial lakes in Nepal have been classified as critically vulnerable to bursting, posing a severe threat to lives and infrastructure, experts from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) revealed on Friday.

Speaking at a discussion in Khandbari, ICIMOD expert Sharad Prasad Joshi highlighted findings from a recent report titled “Risks Arising From Rapid Changes in Nepal’s Glaciers and Glacial Lakes.” Of the 2,069 glacial lakes across the country, 42—located entirely in Koshi Province—are considered “highly at risk.”

In Sankhuwasabha district alone, four lakes, including those in Bhotkhola and Makalu areas, have been flagged as dangerous. The Tallopokhari glacial lake in the lower Barun region is the most vulnerable, stretching three kilometers in length and plunging to depths of around 206 meters. A large pond in the same area has also been included in risk mitigation plans.

Joshi warned that a potential glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) could devastate settlements and infrastructure in the Arun Valley. Additionally, 13 glacial lakes originating in Tibet pose further threats to northern Koshi areas.

ICIMOD, in partnership with Nepal’s Department of Hydrology and Meteorology and UNDP Nepal, is working on risk-reduction measures for the four high-risk lakes. “Greater vigilance and preparedness are essential,” Joshi stressed.

Neera Shrestha Pradhan, another ICIMOD expert, emphasized that women, children, and the elderly are often the most affected during such disasters. She said ICIMOD is implementing awareness programs and capacity-building initiatives to protect these vulnerable groups.

Experts urge immediate action to prevent catastrophic consequences as climate change accelerates glacial melt in the Himalayas.