October 25: A survey of glacial lakes upstream of Mangdechu has been carried out on the ground level. This type of survey is the first of its kind in the country unlike satellite projection in the past.

Of the 25 potentially dangerous lakes in the country, 14 are located at the source of Punatshang chu, seven at the source of Mangdechu and the rest around different water sources including the Chamkhar chhu.

Currently a Japanese engineering company is studying a lake which is on the side of Mangdechu.

This according to the Department of Disaster Management is the first ever study to be carried out on a ground level.

In the past most studies were carried out through satellite projection.

Yesterday, representatives from relevant agencies met to discuss their findings.

According to the findings there is a need to construct check dams around the lake and institute emergency alarm system.

The team said they will provide the necessary technical support to institute these systems once they discuss the report back in Japan with their government.

A senior manager with the private engineering firm Yoshio Yabe said its present condition and situation is very dangerous.

“So based on the survey, we recommend three major components, one is hazard alarm system, second is to construct a check dam and third one is providing technical assistance, “he said.

Officials from the Department of Disaster Management said they will review the recommendations with other relevant agencies before agreeing on a strategy and a plan of action.

Bhutan has over 2700 lakes.