Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH)

Latest News

• Record Low Snow Persistence: The HKH region recorded its lowest snow cover in 23 years during the 2024–2025 winter, raising alarms about climate-driven water scarcity and ecological disruption. This decline threatens water security for millions dependent on Himalayan rivers.

About the Hindu Kush Himalaya

• Geography:

  • Span: ~3,500 km across 8 countries – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, Myanmar, Pakistan.

  • Area: ~4.2 million sq. km.

  • Highest Peak: Tirich Mir (7,708 m) in Chitral, Pakistan.

  • Key Divisions:

    1. Eastern Hindu Kush

    2. Central Hindu Kush

    3. Western Hindu Kush (Bābā Mountains).

  • Unique Features: Inner valleys with desert-like aridity and sparse vegetation.

Ecological & Climatic Significance

• Third Pole:

  • Holds the largest ice reserves outside the polar regions, critical for regulating global climate.

  • 4 Global Biodiversity Hotspots: Hosts endangered species like snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan tahr.

• River Systems:

  • 10 Major Asian Rivers Originate Here:

    • South Asia: Indus, Ganges, Brahmaputra.

    • Southeast Asia: Irrawaddy, Salween, Mekong.

    • East Asia: Yangtse, Yellow River, Tarim.

    • Central Asia: Amu Darya.

  • Water Source: Supports 1.9 billion people (25% of the global population).

• Ecosystem Diversity: Glaciers, alpine meadows, forests, wetlands, and grasslands.

Climate Vulnerability

• Snow & Ice Melt: Recent low snow persistence exacerbates risks of:

  • Water Shortages: Reduced river flows impact agriculture, hydropower, and drinking water.

  • Extreme Weather: Increased floods, landslides, and glacial lake outbursts (GLOFs).

  • Biodiversity Loss: Threatens endemic species and fragile ecosystems.

Key Takeaways

• • Climate Crisis: Declining snow cover underscores urgent need for regional climate action and adaptation strategies.

  • Geopolitical Importance: Transboundary water management is vital for stability among HKH nations.

  • Biodiversity Hub: Conservation efforts are critical to protect unique ecosystems and species.

  • Human Impact: Over 1.9 billion people rely on HKH rivers; sustainable practices are essential to avert crises.

FAQs

1. Which rivers originate in the HKH?

   • Ans: Indus, Ganges, Brahmaputra, Amu Darya, Irrawaddy, Mekong, Salween, Yangtse, Yellow River, and Tarim.

2. What is the highest peak in the Hindu Kush?

   • Ans: Tirich Mir (7,708 m) in Pakistan.

3. Why is HKH called the “Third Pole”?

   • Ans: It holds the largest ice cover outside the Arctic and Antarctica, crucial for global climate stability.