Scientists warn Badrinath hanging glaciers could collapse, damage 398 buildings
Scientists are sounding the alarm about hanging glaciers above Badrinath that could collapse. If that happens, 398 buildings, two bridges, and a helipad could be damaged.
The research team, featuring experts from IISc, Cambridge, and DRDO, used satellite images to spot three unstable glaciers right above the Himalayan town.
Study urges hazard mapping, tighter rules
One glacier in particular is especially risky: it holds a huge amount of ice and could unleash an avalanche moving as fast as 78.5 meters per second.
While the famous Badrinath Dham shrine isn't directly threatened right now, nearby areas are still in danger.
The study urges quick action: things like hazard mapping and tighter rules to help keep people safe, especially since rising temperatures are changing the behavior of glaciers, snow cover, and mountain slopes.