Tsho Rolpa Hazard Mitigation Project

The Fix

The satellite based siren system is still in place. For more information on this system, see Warning and Monitoring Systems International (WMSI): general information about the Tsho Rolpa sirens, and technical details.

The Tso Rolpa hazard mitigation project got underway in August 1998, and is scheduled for completion in December 1902. Major funding came from the Netherlands, with a donation of $2,988,000; HMG also contributed $115,414. The Dutch have been involved in efforts to mitigate the danger of a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) for ten years, due initially to the activities of Summit Trekking.

The principal contractor for the project is Bhutwal; Himal Hydro and General Construction Ltd is the subcontractor. The engineer-hydrologist in charge is Dr. Arun B. Shrestha [email: tshorolpa@unlimit.com]; Reynolds Geo-Sciences, Ltd. is the international technical advisor.

Tsho Rolpa hazard mitigation project site, October 2000

Catwalk over the sluice gate.

Engineers cut a notch in the moraine that holds back the lake; the notch was dammed and a sluice gate installed to allow controled release of water.

Sluice gate controling flow notch cut in moraine bank of lake.

Above and below: The outlet channel leading from the lake through the gate.

Water being released over moraine lip to join Rolwaling River below.

Water dropping from notch to join Rolwaling River below;
rocks have been stabilized with cables.