A multi-departmental team concluded a high-altitude glacial lake expedition on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in the scientific study of Himalayan ecosystems. The mission, which began on 20th August, brought together experts from DMG, Sikkim Police, SSDMA, DDMA, SU, CWC, GSI, NIH, NIDM, CWPRS, HPSDMA, DGRE, and IPR.
The expedition was divided into two groups. Team A completed its objectives at Dolma Sampa and Sora funnel area before returning on 26th August. Team B advanced towards South Lhonak Lake, where it further split into two sub-teams. Sub-team B1 (CWC, GSI, NIH, HPSDMA, DGRE) returned to Gangtok on 29th August, while sub-team B2 (DST, SU, IPR) proceeded to Changsang before regrouping at Thangu on 1st September. On 2nd September, Team B2 set out for Yulhe Kangse Lake.
This marked the first-ever scientific visit to Yulhe Kangse Lake (16,378 ft) in North Sikkim. The exploration provided crucial baseline data, including lake depth profiling, sediment composition, and hydrological linkages, enhancing understanding of how glacial lakes interact with climate change in the fragile Eastern Himalayan ecosystem.
On the 15th day of the mission (3rd September), the team established a base camp at Yulhe Kangse. The following day, a traditional puja ceremony was performed at the lake before conducting the first bathymetric survey and sediment sampling. The expedition ended on 6th September, with the team trekking back via Lachung and returning to Gangtok.
Officials highlighted that the mission’s success was possible due to the support of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the Indian Army, the local Zumsa community, and Khangri Tours & Treks, whose cooperation ensured both safety and smooth execution.
According to the science and technology department, Sikkim government, the findings are expected to contribute significantly to future research on the geomorphology, hydrology, and climate interactions of high-altitude lake systems.