Nepal, Oct. 19 -- The Himalayas are becoming increasingly vulnerable to cascading disasters. Rising atmospheric temperatures, glacier retreat, permafrost degradation and expanding glacial lakes are contributing to the destabilization of high mountain environments. Melamchi Flood (2021), Thame GLOF (2024), Bhotekoshi GLOF (2025) and now the recent disasters in the Bhotekoshi and Budhi Gandaki river systems have demonstrated how a sudden glacial collapse, rock-ice avalanche or landslide-dam breach can generate devastating floods and debris flows, threatening settlements, infrastructure and livelihoods far downstream. Along with their increased frequency and intensity, its with urgent priority the action should be taken immediately.

These e...