Early Flood Warning System in Everest Region Reported in Disrepair

An early flood warning system intended to protect thousands in the Everest region of Nepal is no longer operational, according to officials from Nepal's department of hydrology and meteorology (DHM). The system, installed as part of a $3.5 million project, has not been maintained since the Imja glacial lake was drained in 2016.

Residents in nearby Sherpa communities reported that siren towers have rusted and some batteries have been stolen. The Imja lake, located at over 5,000 meters above sea level, was reduced in depth by about 3.5 meters during the 2016 project. Officials noted that satellite data reception for monitoring water levels has been unreliable, affecting the ability to send mobile alerts.

in villages such as Chhukung and Phakding expressed concerns about the system's condition. Ang Nuru Sherpa, chairman of the Chaurikharka buffer zone area adjoining the Sagarmatha national park, stated that the siren tower in his village is rusting and at risk of falling due to no maintenance.

Jangbu Sherpa from Chhukung said officials had promised annual inspections, but none have occurred, leading locals to request repairs in Kathmandu without success. Tshering Sherpa, chief executive officer of the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, highlighted that six villages are vulnerable to floods from the lake, along with over 60,000 tourists who visit the region annually, especially during spring.

A local resident in Phakding described the project as ineffective, leaving communities living with daily flood risks.

Niraj Pradhananga, a senior meteorologist at the DHM, confirmed that the department cannot verify if the sirens work and noted reports of stolen batteries in areas like Dingboche. Archana Shrestha, the DHM's acting director general, said resources were redirected to another glacial lake's system but plans are in place to address Imja, including rule changes for better maintenance funding and staff allocation.

The hydro-met station for real-time data has faced transmission issues, with DHM officials reporting irregular data reception from the satellite provider. The satellite company stated there are no issues on their end and pointed to the local service provider, which has not responded to inquiries.

New Initiatives Scientists have observed that melting glaciers due to global warming are causing Himalayan glacial lakes to expand, increasing burst risks that could affect downstream settlements, routes, and bridges. The Everest region has experienced at least five glacial lake floods in the last five decades.

The UNDP has received a $36 million grant to implement similar risk reduction projects at four other locations in Nepal. Monica Upadhyay, head of communication with UNDP Nepal, stated that lessons from the Imja project have led to designs emphasizing long-term sustainability through institutional arrangements, financing, and partnerships.