Monitoring Desk
A recent scientific expedition in Tajikistan’s Pamir Mountains has revealed alarming glacier melt even at high altitudes previously considered relatively stable, according to researchers monitoring the country’s cryosphere.
The findings emerged from Tajikistan’s first direct winter glacier measurements since independence, conducted between May 6 and 15 on Glacier No. 457 in the upper basin of the Nukhchashma (Tokuzbulak) River, a tributary of the Gunt River.
The study was carried out by specialists from the University of Central Asia’s Mountain Societies Research Institute and Tajikistan’s National Academy of Sciences under the United Nations-supported “Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences 2025–2034” initiative.
Scientists examined snow accumulation, density and distribution across the glacier to determine its winter mass balance. Researchers reported that Glacier No. 457 has lost more than one metre in thickness during the latest observation period alone.
Experts also warned that seasonal snow cover in the glacier’s accumulation zone above 5,100 metres has nearly disappeared over the past five years. Accumulation zones are critical for replenishing glacier ice reserves through compacted snow storage.
Researchers cautioned that the loss of snow accumulation at such elevations indicates glaciers are losing mass even before lower-altitude melting is taken into account.
The findings have raised concerns about water security across Central Asia, as glaciers in Tajikistan feed major river systems that support agriculture, hydropower generation and drinking water supplies for millions of people downstream.
Scientists said the latest expedition marks an important step toward strengthening climate monitoring and cryospheric research capacity in the region. The field team conducted measurements under harsh conditions at elevations of around 5,000 metres, facing snowfall, strong winds and poor visibility.
The report comes amid increasing global concern over accelerating glacier loss linked to climate change, with international agencies warning of long-term risks to freshwater availability and energy security in glacier-dependent regions.
