Experts Warn of Rapid Glacier Melting in Azad Kashmir on World Glacier Day
As the world marks World Glacier Day, climate experts have raised fresh alarms over the fast-paced glacier melting in Azad Kashmir. The melting glaciers, they warn, are a direct result of rising temperatures due to climate change.
According to environmental scientists, Azad Kashmir has 224 glaciers. These ice bodies spread across 109 square kilometers, all located in the Neelum Valley. But now, these glaciers are under serious threat.
Dr. Sardar Muhammad Rafiq, a leading climate change expert, expressed grave concern. He said that glacier melting in the region has picked up speed in recent years. He explained that temperatures in Azad Kashmir have increased more than the global average. In the last six decades, the region has warmed by over two degrees Celsius.
“If this trend of glacier melting continues,” Dr. Rafiq warned, “Azad Kashmir may lose all its glaciers within 50 years.” He stressed that this would severely impact the local water supply. Around 80% of the clean water in the region comes from these glaciers. Preserving them is not just important—it’s essential.
He urged immediate action and special protective measures to save these critical frozen water sources. Without these glaciers, the region could face severe water shortages in the future.
On World Glacier Day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also shared his concern. He called glaciers the “guarantee of life on Earth.” He said that if these ice reserves disappear, human life will suffer greatly. He urged everyone to take collective action to safeguard them.
This year, 2025, marks the first official observance of World Glacier Day. The Prime Minister said this global observance highlights the urgent need to conserve glaciers. He added that these natural resources are vital for clean water and ecological balance.
Pakistan is home to more than 13,000 glaciers. But over 10,000 are already shrinking at an alarming rate. The reason behind this is rapid glacier melting, triggered by climate shifts. As glaciers melt, the risk of floods and droughts increases. PM Shehbaz reminded the nation of the devastating 2022 floods. That disaster caused losses worth $30 billion and showed how dangerous climate change can be.
He reaffirmed his commitment to glacier protection. He also appealed to the international community to help nations like Pakistan fight climate threats. The Prime Minister said glacier melting is a global issue, and tackling it requires global cooperation.
The message from both scientists and leaders is clear: glacier conservation can no longer be delayed. These icy structures are more than just frozen water—they are lifelines for millions.
