Sonam Wangchuk, a renowned climate activist and engineer, has recently written an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, warning that the next Maha Kumbh Mela, which occurs once every 144 years, might take place on dry sand due to vanishing rivers. This warning highlights the urgent need for environmental action to preserve India’s water resources.
Sonam Wangchuk is a celebrated Indian engineer, innovator, and climate activist.
He is best known for his work in Ladakh, where he has developed innovative solutions to address environmental challenges, such as creating artificial glaciers to support local agriculture.
His efforts have earned him international recognition, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2018.
Sonam Wangchuk expressed his concerns in an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This letter was widely reported in the media, including news outlets like Jansatta, Arth Prakash, and Newsx.
As of now, there is no public response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding Sonam Wangchuk’s letter.
However, the issue has sparked significant public debate and attention, emphasizing the need for urgent environmental action.
Climate change is causing glaciers to melt at an alarming rate, which can lead to reduced water flow in rivers.
This scenario is plausible, especially if effective measures are not taken to mitigate climate change and protect water sources.
Wangchuk is warning that if urgent action is not taken, India’s major rivers like
- the Ganga
- Yamuna
- Brahmaputra
- and Indus
could become seasonal, significantly impacting religious gatherings and the livelihoods of millions.
He emphasizes that these glaciers are the primary source of water for these rivers and are melting at an alarming rate
Sonam Wangchuk’s warning serves as a call to action to address these pressing environmental issues before it’s too late.
Sonam Wangchuk’s warning about the next Maha Kumbh Mela potentially taking place on dry sand highlights the urgent need for environmental conservation.
His call for urgent action to preserve Himalayan glaciers is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of these water bodies and the cultural events they support.
