By Abdul Ghani

Pakistan’s climate monitoring capabilities have been strengthened as the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) continues its satellite-based surveillance of 115 potentially dangerous glacial lake locations across the country’s northern mountainous regions.

The advanced monitoring system helps authorities track changes in glacial lakes, assess emerging risks, and improve early warning preparedness against potential Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).

According to the latest GLOF seasonal monitoring assessment report, a copy of which is available with Wealth Pakistan, satellite observations are providing continuous updates on vulnerable glacial lake conditions, supporting coordination among key institutions, including the SUPARCO, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority, and WAPDA’s Glacier Monitoring and Research Centre.

The monitoring data indicate that seasonal changes in glacier environments are being closely observed through satellite technology, allowing experts to identify areas requiring greater attention and better preparedness measures.

The initiative reflects Pakistan’s growing use of space technology for climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, and the protection of communities living in glacier-sensitive areas of Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral, and other northern regions.

Through continuous satellite surveillance and data sharing, authorities are working to strengthen early warning mechanisms and improve planning against climate-related challenges.

The expanded monitoring network highlights Pakistan’s commitment to using modern technology to better understand changing glacier patterns and enhance safety measures for vulnerable mountain communities.

Credit: INP-WealthPk