Jul 1, 2025, 1:37 AM
Jul 1, 2025, 1:37 AM

Himalayan village relocates due to extreme water scarcity

Tragic
Highlights
  • The Himalayan village of Samjung has experienced severe water shortages due to climate change.
  • As streams dried up and rainfall became erratic, families began abandoning their homes.
  • The village has relocated and adapted to new living conditions but faces ongoing challenges due to climate impacts.
Story

In Nepal, the Himalayan village of Samjung has undergone significant transformation due to the harsh impacts of climate change. The area faced a gradual decline in snowfall over the years, which ultimately led to the drying up of three vital streams that the community relied upon for water. As rainfall became increasingly erratic, the villagers were left grappling with the dire consequences of flooding and loss of arable land. Consequently, families began leaving one by one, resulting in a complete depopulation of the village. The effects of climate change are being felt acutely in the Hindu Kush and Himalayan mountain regions, where reports have indicated that glaciers are rapidly retreating and permafrost areas are thawing. Such changes in the climate have disrupted traditional agricultural practices and posed challenges for communities living in these high-altitude regions. Experts from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICMOD) have noted that snowfall has become significantly scarcer in recent years, further exacerbating water shortages. Amid these deteriorating conditions, communities like Samjung have been forced to relocate. The relocation process for Samjung was complex, as even a village with fewer than 100 residents faced significant hurdles. Individuals like Pemba Gurung and her sister Toshi Lama Gurung took the initiative to construct appropriate shelters for livestock and build necessary infrastructure like canals to facilitate water transportation. This preparation was crucial before they could finally transition to their new village. Samjung has become a focal point for discussions on climate-induced migration, with many villagers now engaging in tourism to sustain their livelihoods. As a hub for trekkers and pilgrims wanting to explore the high mountains and ancient Buddhist culture, the community is working towards rebuilding their lives in a new environment. However, memories of their former home remain vivid and poignant, highlighting the emotional toll and sense of loss that accompanies such drastic changes in living conditions.

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