°C Nepali scientists set up comprehensive monitoring network at Artang Glacier in Humla
KATHMANDU: As Nepal faced severe hydro-climatic disasters, a team of Nepali researchers completed one of the most intensive cryo-climatic field expeditions to Tungling Glacier, also known as Artang Glacier, in Limi Valley, Humla.
The scientists began monitoring the glacier in 2023 with support from a Tribhuvan University (TU) research grant. “This time, we have established a comprehensive monitoring network extending from the glacier terminus to the upper reaches and along the valley,” said lead scientist Dr Dibas Shrestha of Tribhuvan University.
According to Shrestha, the network includes 20 ablation stakes, accumulation stakes, multiple automatic weather stations (AWSs), regular GNSS surveys, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) surveys, time-lapse cameras, ground surface temperature sensors, and other complementary observations.
“This may be the first glacier monitoring program in Nepal initiated and maintained entirely by a Nepali team,” Shrestha said. He added that the team aims to sustain the long-term monitoring program for as long as possible, building a valuable record of cryo-climatic change in the region.
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