The stunning beauty of the Glaciers in Pakistan has mesmerized the world. There are over 13000 glaciers in Pakistan, making the country the third pole after Antarctic and Arctic regions. These majestic ice formations are tourist attractions and a source of fresh water, irrigation, and hydropower. However, the effects of climate change on Glaciers in Pakistan have raised concerns about the country’s environment and sustainability.
Effects of Climate Change on Glaciers
Although Pakistan contributes less than 1% of carbon emissions to the world, the repercussions on the country’s natural resources are enormous. It can be understood from the fact that the glaciers in Pakistan are melting rapidly. One such example is the Passu Glacier, located in Gilgit-Baltistan, the northern region of Pakistan. The data has revealed that the Passu Glacier has reduced 10% in size during the past four decades from 1977 to 2014.
Glacial Lakes in Pakistan
Climate change has also resulted in the glacial lakes, such as Attabad Lake in Hunza Valley, Gilgit Baltistan. The rising temperature due to carbon emissions has caused the glaciers to melt down, thus overflowing rivers and oceans and creating lakes. There are over 3000 glacial lakes in Gilgit Baltistan and KPK province alone. Many of them can burst anytime, thus damaging the nearby community.
Why Are Glaciers in Pakistan Important?
Glaciers are not just ice-capped beauties and Instagrammable spots, they are a source of life. Millions of people in northern Pakistan use the glacial meltwater for drinking purposes, to grow their crops, and to survive. Moreover, the glacial water is rich in nutrients and minerals.
When it flows down to the rivers, oceans, and lakes, it multiplies the growth of marine algae like Phytoplankton. As a result, the marine creations of plants and animals are supported by the meltwater of glaciers in Pakistan.
Glaciers also provide freshwater for agricultural purposes in the area, thus, the millions of inhabitants perform their living activities and maintain a lifecycle.
Top Glaciers of Pakistan
As we mentioned above, there are approximately 13000 Glaciers in Pakistan, making the country one of the highest resources of icy giants. The top 10 glaciers in Pakistan include some of the breathtaking snowy peaks in the world. Let’s discuss them in detail.
Siachen Glacier
It is 76 kilometers long, the longest in the Karakoram. Outside the polar region, Siachin is the second largest glacier in the world.
Baltoro Glacier
The Baltoro Glacier is the 5th longest glacier in the world. You will be amazed that this 63-kilometer-long glacier range holds K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, and Gasherbrum II. All of these are among the world’s most famous 8,000-meter peaks.
Biafo Glacier
Biafo Glacier is the second largest glacier in Pakistan, with a length of 63 kilometers.
Passu Glacier
Hisper Glacier is 49 Kilometers long
Batura Glacier is 57 kilometers long and is located in the Hunza Valley of Pakistan. This scenic beauty is
Abruzzi Glacier is 63 kilometers long and located in Skardu. From here, you can enjoy the views of K2.
Godwin Austen Glacier is located in the Karakoram Range
Gondogorro Glacier is located in the Karakoram Range and is 12 kilometers long
Pakistan has abundance of natural resources which can generate billion dollar revenue. However, the lack of government support to private industries have caused decades of delay in the utilization of these landmarks. Tell us what do you think about the glaciers of Pakistan. Stay updated about 360 Buzz.
