The team embarked on their journey from Jethang, situated at 13,200 feet, on August 20th. They halted overnight at Merathang, at an elevation of 14,600 feet, before continuing to Sangnga Nehgu Lake the following day. The delegation included several key officials, including Superintendent of Police DW Thongon, EAC Mogto Honjon Perme, AE WRD Jang Kago Kani, DIPRO Tawang, trek leader and photography expert Jambey Dondu, and representatives from the army and the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), along with additional support staff.
During the survey, the team observed the aftermath of a glacial lake outburst that had occurred on August 14th. The outburst had caused significant damage, washing away over five log bridges and damaging the Brokpa track at several points. The rapid melting of the glacier behind the lake has heightened concerns about the possibility of another GLOF, with the team noting the increasing risk due to ongoing glacial melt.
In response to the situation, Deputy Commissioner Darang announced the sanctioning of Rs 3 lakh from the untied fund to repair the damaged Brokpa tracks. He also indicated that the issue of the washed-out bridges would be escalated to higher authorities. Additionally, DC Darang instructed a Gram Panchayat member to address water supply concerns with the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) and assured that directives would be given to the Executive Engineer to expedite the resolution.
Meanwhile, a second team, led by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Jang Hakraso Kri, conducted a similar survey of Tso Kyei Lake at an altitude of 14,800 feet on August 20th. This team included Circle Officers Khoda Oniya and Tage Mooniya, DDMO Tawang Genden Tsomu, Gram Chairperson of Mago village Tsetim Panden, and local villagers. The team completed their survey and safely returned on the same day.
To ensure safety and provide emergency backup, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) teams were stationed at Jethang. Both survey teams returned to their respective headquarters on August 22nd, having successfully completed their missions without any reported incidents.
The ongoing efforts reflect the district administration's proactive approach in addressing the risks posed by glacial lake outbursts in the region. With glacial melt increasing due to climate change, the monitoring of these sensitive areas remains a priority for local and national authorities.
