Kathmandu— In response to a devastating flash flood in Rasuwa last Wednesday that resulted in significant loss of life and property, authorities in Upper Mustang – a high-altitude region bordering Tibet – have stepped up precautionary measures. Field inspections and drone monitoring are underway to identify potential hazards and minimize damage, focusing on areas within Lomanthang Rural Municipality. The initiative, led by the District Administration Office and the District Disaster Management Committee, aims to assess risks stemming from glacial lakes and rivers flowing from the Tibetan side.

Recent Flooding Prompts Increased Vigilance

The current monitoring effort was initiated following a flood on July 8th that damaged infrastructure along the Chumjung Khola in Lomanthang. Investigators believe this event was caused by the bursting of Jaka Glacial Lake, located at the foot of Chhuama Peak on the Nepal-China border, or another glacial lake in the area. Chief District Officer Ajita Sharma stated that a team comprised of Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and representatives from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) began monitoring rivers and mountains on Friday.

Drone Technology Aids Risk Assessment

Authorities are utilizing drones to assess river sizes originating from Tibet, glacial lakes surrounding the mountains, and areas previously impacted by floods where physical access is limited. According to Sharma, the team will compile a report detailing their findings and recommendations for further preparation. Umesh Poudel, chief of ACAP’s Lomanthang office, detailed inspections of the Amga Khola source at approximately 5,900 metres altitude, as well as surrounding geographical conditions and potential glacial lakes.

Historical Data Highlights Ongoing Threat

The monitoring team is also gathering information from local residents involved in yarsagumba collection and livestock grazing regarding rivers flowing from Tibet and ponds forming around the mountain range. Field inspections have revealed evidence of past flooding events, and a study last year confirmed the presence of numerous glaciers in the region despite the absence of large glacial lakes. Analysis of satellite imagery near Chhuama River suggests that a small lake’s melting due to rising temperatures triggered a flood in 2025.

Downstream Impacts and Calls for Early Warning Systems

Rivers originating in Upper Mustang eventually flow into the Kali Gandaki River, impacting multiple districts including Myagdi, Baglung, and Parbat. This means that floods in the upper reaches can have far-reaching consequences for infrastructure downstream. Experts emphasize the need for regular monitoring of rivers, mountains, and glacial lakes along the border, as well as information sharing regarding heavy rainfall on the Tibetan side. Despite concerns about climate change accelerating glacier melt, an adequate early warning system remains absent.

Last year’s flooding in Upper Mustang resulted in the destruction of four bridges and approximately Rs. 20 million in property damage, underscoring the urgent need for continued vigilance and preventative measures.

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.