"Snow-less and black" Kanchenjunga sparks climate fears in Sikkim

A recent video showing Mount Kanchenjunga without its usual snow cover has sparked concern in Sikkim, with Dr. Mahendra P. Lama, Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of Sikkim, calling it a dangerous sign of climate change. The iconic peak - the third highest in the world - now appears dark and bare, with only faint traces of snow remaining on its slopes.
 

Speaking from Gangtok on Friday morning, Dr. Lama shared his concern. “Good morning, everyone. This is a view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world, from Gangtok. Today is 30th May, 2025. Never seen Kanchenjunga without snows. Look at Kanchenjunga today. It's a black mountain with just some lines of snows around,” he said.
 

He pointed to global warming and rapid climate change as the likely causes. “Many say, and a number of studies have revealed, that this is because of climate change, the fast melting of snows,” Lama said.
 

Dr. Lama also warned that while the visible changes are worrying, the unknown impacts could be even more dangerous. “Nobody knows what are the implications of this on river waters, on glacial lakes, on livelihood, communities and on agricultural systems, on hydropower projects. It's a very, very dangerous phenomenon,” he said.
 

Kanchenjunga’s glaciers feed several important rivers in the region. As the snow and ice melt faster than before, experts fear a long-term water crisis that could affect not only Sikkim but also large parts of eastern and northeastern India.
 

Hydropower projects in Sikkim, which are a key part of the state's economy, also face uncertain futures. These projects depend on steady glacial melt to produce electricity, and any disruption could have financial and environmental consequences.
 

For the people of Sikkim, Kanchenjunga is more than a mountain. It is a symbol of identity, culture, and nature's majesty.