Hindu Kush Himalaya could lose 75% of glacier ice, over a billion people at risk

A new scientific study has revealed that the Hindu Kush Himalaya — a critical water source for nearly two billion people — could lose up to 75% of its glacier ice by the end of this century if global temperatures rise by two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

- BY S VENKAT NARAYAN

This stark projection shows the region's vulnerability and the far-reaching consequences for water security across Asia.

The findings, published in the journal Science, highlight the urgent need for stronger climate action.

If countries succeed in limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, as outlined in the Paris Agreement, the study estimates that 40-45% of glacier ice in the Himalayas and the Caucasus could be preserved.

Globally, this would mean retaining 54% of current glacier mass, compared to just 24% if the world continues on its current trajectory toward 2.7 degrees Celsius of warming by century’s end.