Climate Change at the Third Pole

The glaciers of the Himalaya are the Third Pole. They feed the giant rivers of Asia, and support half of humanity. For centuries snow has supported human survival in Ladakh. Climate change is changing this. Less snow is falling, so there is less moisture for growing crops. In village after village, we are witnessing the end of farming where snow melt on the fields was the only source of moisture. Reduced snowfall also means less snow in glaciers, and less streamflow.

The shorter period of snowfall prevents the snow from turning into hard ice crystals. Therefore more of the glacier is liable to melt when the summer comes. Climate change has also led to rain, rather than snow, falling even at higher altitudes. This also accelerates the melting of glaciers.

Meantime, heavy rainfall which was unknown in the high altitude desert has become more frequent, causing flash floods, washing away homes and fields, trees and livestock. Climate refugees are already being created in the Himalaya in villages such as Rongjuk. As one of the displaced women said "when we see the black clouds, we feel afraid." 

Vandana Shiva: Climate Change at the Third Pole

Tehelka: Climate change dries up water in Ladakh