Zeeshan Qayyum

Pakistan hosts more than 5000 glaciers. 2500 glacier lakes formed. 52 declared as GLOF. GLOF events are catastrophic, e.g. Boni Gole Glacier.

Population Growth Economic development

Since the Industrial Revolution, humans have been

burning fossil fuels on a massive scale.

Burning fossil fuels releases CO2 stored millions of years ago as oil, coal or natural gas.

Degradation of forests. The increase of CO2 in the atmosphere thickens the

'greenhouse blanket thus causing global warming.

Hinarchy Glacier 2008

Hinarchy Glacier 2011

GISS (Goddard Institute for Space Studies)

Last decade was the warmest of Pakistan with 0.93 rise in

temperature. High mountain climate was even warmer. The rise was
75% more than anticipated.

Potential GLOFs because of Forest degradation are emerging.

Concerned organizations should build their capacity to refine

monitoring techniques, follow innovation research methodology and develop early warning systems.

Global community must mobilize the resources to take initiatives to address the issue and ensure sustainable combination of white & blue.

GISS (Goddard Institute for Space Studies) Pakistan Journal of Meteorology Vol. 8, Issue 15. Pakistan Meteorological Department website.