Shimla, Feb 22 (Reporter) Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena has released a comprehensive report on the bathymetry survey of Vasuki and Sangla glacial lakes, highlighting the impact of climate change on glacier thawing and the formation of Glacial Obstruction Lake Formation (GOLF) lakes in Himachal Pradesh. These lakes, located in Kullu and Kinnaur districts, respectively, have been placed under an early warning system due to their increasing size and potential threat to life and property. The study, conducted by scientists and engineers from the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing, provides critical insights into the changing landscape of these vulnerable glacier lakes. The survey reveals that both Vasuki and Sangla lakes have expanded significantly over the past seven years due to melting glaciers caused by climate change. Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, who led the release of the report on Friday, emphasised the importance of proactive measures to mitigate the risks posed by these water bodies. Vasuki Glacial Lake, located at an altitude of 4,500 meters in Sosan, has grown from 10.36 hectares in 2017 to 13.38 hectares in 2024, an increase of 3.02 hectares. It holds approximately 2.166 million cubic meters of water. The maximum depth of the lake is recorded at 36.91 meters, with an average depth of 14.48 meters. Sangla Glacial Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,710 meters in Sangla, has increased in size from 13.4 hectares in 2017 to 14.29 hectares in 2024. However, a survey conducted in September 2024 found its area to be 15.73 hectares. The lake holds about 1.527 million cubic meters of water. The study predicts that a potential bursting of this lake could significantly impact the JSW Baspa Hydel Power Station and pose risks to human life and property in the Sangla region. The report emphasises the vulnerability of the Parvati River, which may witness an increase in water flow due to continuous glacier melting. Although no leakage has been detected from Vasuki L...////...