Skardu (PR): In a collaborative effort to counter the challenges posed by climate change, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has successfully installed Automated Weather Stations (AWS) at three prominent glaciers in the Karakoram, Hindu Kush, and Himalayan mountain ranges.
The intervention is carried out in partnership with Karakoram International University (KIU), Ev-K2-CNR, University of Baltistan, Gilgit-Baltistan Environmental Protection Agency (EPA-GB), Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, Milan University Italy, and University of King Perry Italy.
The project is aimed at promoting scientific research on glaciers and hydrology to preserve these vital natural resources in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The AWS have been strategically placed at Skoli, Urdukas, and Concordia glaciers to collect crucial data for climate research, enabling a better understanding of glacier dynamics and the impacts of climate change.
This initiative follows a prior successful implementation of AWS at Pussu Gojal and Shisher glaciers in 2022 under the Glaciers and Students Project, which facilitated research opportunities for students and faculty from KIU and University of Baltistan.
By involving renowned institutions from different countries, the project emphasizes joint efforts in adopting sustainable measures and strengthening environmental protection in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The collaboration seeks to mitigate the effects of climate change in the region and foster cutting-edge research on glaciers.
The installation of AWS at these glaciers is a significant step towards addressing the threats posed by climate change to the delicate ecosystems and communities dependent on glacial water resources.
Through this ongoing partnership, the UNDP and its supporting institutions are committed to safeguarding the glaciers and promoting a more sustainable future for the region.
