Hydrological vulnerabilities of Himalayas: implications of climate change

The Himalayan region, known for its natural variety and significance is increasingly being exposed to the effects of climate change. Himalayas encompass twelve major river basins which provide a key source of freshwater for millions of people in the South and Central Asia. The Indus River system is particularly important, as it is strongly reliant on glacial and snowmelt runoff to maintain its flow. However, rapid climatic changes are putting tremendous strain on this fragile hydrological balance. This review synthesises existing research on the implications of climate change for water availability in the Himalayan region. It explores key hydrological variables, such as glacier retreat, altered precipitation patterns, declining stream flows, and evapotranspiration dynamics; highlighting the increased frequency and severity of climate-related hazards such as droughts, famines, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). The study highlights a steady trend of diminishing water security in the region, fuelled by both climatic and anthropogenic pressures. The review provides a critical assessment of previous and present hydrological conditions and lays the groundwork for evidence-based policy solutions. The present work intends to help develop long-term water resource management strategies that are adapted to the Himalayan landscape's vulnerabilities.