After Rasuwa: An argument for an International Centre for Glaciers
Summary
Rasuwa’s flood killed people, destroyed infrastructure, and exposed how glacier-related hazards can trigger fast-moving disasters far downstream. The article argues for an International Centre for Glaciers to improve cross-border monitoring, warnings, and preparedness before the next catastrophe.
Key Points
- The Rasuwa flood was a deadly mountain disaster triggered by an avalanche and collapse high above the Lhende Khola near Nepal’s northern border.
- The surge moved downstream at extreme speed, leaving little time for evacuation and showing the limits of downstream-only alerts.
- The article calls for an International Centre for Glaciers to monitor dangerous glaciers, share risk information across borders, and strengthen preparedness.
- It argues that glacier and permafrost hazards are a climate justice issue affecting mountain communities across the Himalaya and beyond.
