The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of Sikkim, is conducting a two-week scientific expedition to the East Rathong glacier in West Sikkim, starting June 22, 2024. The aim is to study glacier dynamics and the impacts of climate change on the Himalayas.

The expedition involves a team of scientists using advanced instruments for precise data collection.This initiative also focuses on assessing the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), especially in light of the recent devastating flood in October 2023.

Objectives include bathymetric surveys of three vulnerable glacial lakes, studying glacier velocity, vertical retreat, and meltwater streams, and upgrading weather monitoring stations.The findings will inform climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction policies.