Snow disappears from Om Parvat

Snow has disappeared from Om Parvat in Uttarakhand for the first time in recorded history, raising significant concerns among environmentalists and locals. Om Parvat, located in the Vyas Valley at an altitude of approximately 14,000 feet, is renowned for its snow-capped peak that naturally forms a pattern resembling the Hindi symbol “Om.” This unique feature has made it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.However, recent observations have shown the mountain completely devoid of snow, a phenomenon attributed to various environmental factors.
Experts have pointed to scanty rainfall and scattered snowfall in the upper Himalayan region over the past five years as primary reasons for this unprecedented event. The region has experienced a significant decrease in precipitation, which has directly impacted the snow cover on Om Parvat. Additionally, the rise in vehicular pollution and global warming have exacerbated the situation. Sunil Nautiyal, Director of the GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment in Almora, highlighted the role of increased temperatures in the eco-sensitive zones of the Himalayas. He emphasized that the growing number of fuel-driven vehicles and rampant forest fires have contributed to the degradation of these sensitive areas.

Local residents and visitors have expressed their shock and disappointment at the sight of a snowless Om Parvat. Urmila Sanwal, a resident of Gunji village, shared photos of the barren peak, noting that the “Om” shaped pattern was barely recognizable without snow. Dhan Singh Bisht, who oversees the Adi Kailash Yatra base camp in Dharchula, mentioned that in his 22 years of service with the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam, he had never seen Om Parvat completely without snow. The annual snow melting rate at Om Parvat used to be between 95-99%, but this year it melted entirely.
The impact of this event extends beyond environmental concerns. Tourism in the region, which relies heavily on the allure of Om Parvat’s snow-capped peak, could suffer if the snowless condition persists. The local economy, dependent on the influx of tourists and pilgrims, may face significant challenges. An official from the district administration in Pithoragarh expressed relief when snowfall on a recent Monday night temporarily restored the snow cover on Om Parvat. However, the underlying issues causing the snow to disappear remain unaddressed.
The disappearance of snow from Om Parvat is a stark reminder of the broader impacts of climate change. The Himalayan region, known for its fragile ecosystem, is particularly vulnerable to changes in temperature and precipitation patterns. The increase in global temperatures has led to the melting of glaciers and reduced snowfall, affecting not only the natural beauty of the region but also the water supply for millions of people downstream. The situation at Om Parvat underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address climate change and protect the delicate balance of the Himalayan environment.
Efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change in the region must include reducing vehicular emissions, managing forest fires, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. Determining the bearing capacity of sensitive areas and implementing strict regulations on vehicle usage can help preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Himalayas. The disappearance of snow from Om Parvat serves as a wake-up call for policymakers, environmentalists, and the global community to take immediate and effective action to combat climate change and safeguard our planet’s future.