A Run against GLOF

Development and Eco Action Support (iDEAS) is going to organize The Imja Tsho Action Event 2009 to highlight a colossal threat that is lurking in the shadow of Mt Everest due to Global warming. Beat the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) Action Run and Khumbhu Festival are the main events which are being held on June 18 and 19 at the Khumbu region.

The key purpose behind this event is to make local, environmentalist, government and international community realize the rapidly swelling glacial lake Imja that is threatening the entire region from literally being swept away.

Chief coordinator of iDEAS, Dawa Steven Lama said, “This event silently symbolizes the fact that even the fastest runners won’t be able to run away from the rage of glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF).” GLOF Action Run, which is the highlight of the event, is being held on the first day. It starts from the source of Imja Lake and cover mountain trails and Khumbu villages ending at the Khumjung School. On the last day, cultural program embodying the sight and sounds of the region will be held.

Khumbu is the major trekking route to the Mt Everest. The tourism and trekking industry and the livelihood of the entire region will have devastating effects if Imja Lake unleashes its power.

Imja Lake is situated in the southern side of the Mt Everest at an altitude of 16433ft, 50 km from Lukla Airport. The lake is growing at an alarming rate as a result of climate change. If the situation is not handled, eventually the threat will turn into reality.