Himalayan Cryosphere

The Himalayan Cryosphere encompasses all frozen water components in the Himalayas, including glaciers, snowfields, ice caps, and permafrost. These ice masses store vast amounts of freshwater and influence regional climate, water resources, and sea levels. The glaciers act as natural water reservoirs, releasing meltwater that sustains rivers like the Ganges, Indus, and Brahmaputra. Due to climate change, many Himalayan glaciers are melting and retreating, threatening water security for millions. The cryosphere's health reflects broader environmental shifts, making its study vital for understanding impacts on ecosystems, human livelihoods, and regional stability.