NDMA-led expeditions install two solar-powered automated weather stations at high-risk glacial lakes in Sikkim

New Delhi [India], October 12 : Two National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)-led multi-agency expeditions to high-risk glacial lakes South Lhonak and Shako Cho in Sikkim have installed two solar-powered, twin-camera, Automated Weather Stations (AWS), the NDMA said on Thursday.
The Automated Weather Stations were installed on September 16 during these expeditions conducted between September 6 and 18 this year at the height of 15,000-16,000 feet.
"Two NDMA-led multi-agency expeditions to two high-risk glacial lakes, South Lhonak and Shako Cho in Sikkim, (15-16,000 feet; September 6-18, 2023) installed two solar-powered, twin-camera, Automated Weather Stations (AWS) on September 16, 2023," said the NDMA in a statement.
"Considering the remote location, harsh climate, terrain and topography and the installation of an unmanned system, considerable preparations were needed to ensure safety and functionality of the Automated Weather Stations (AWS)," the statement further mentioned.
This was a preparatory mission that succeeded in identifying appropriate locations and installing Automated Weather Stations, it also said.
In addition, the statement mentioned, it identified potential locations to install an array of sensors for an end-to-end Early Warning System (EWS) during the next expedition, and suggest potential mitigation measures.
As per the statement, one set of camera views and over 250 weather observations were received daily. "However, equipment at South Lhonak ceased transmission after September 19."
The statement also informs that an Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) contingent checked the equipment on September 28 as physically stable, but it could not be revived.
The Shako Cho equipment continues to transmit daily data, the statement further said.
"This GLOF (Glacial Lake Outburst Flood) Risk Mitigation Programme is sought to be extended to all high-risk glacial lakes in India," the NDMA added.