water crisis and anticipatory actions in the Himalayan region

The Himalayan region, known as the “water tower of Asia,” is facing an escalating water crisis due to climate change, glacier retreat, erratic precipitation, and growing human pressures. Accelerated glacier melting and reduced snowfall threaten mountain communities and downstream sectors reliant on meltwater, such as agriculture, energy, tourism, and health. This session will examine how water shortages and variability disrupt ecosystems, economies, and regional stability, emphasizing the need for anticipatory actions to mitigate risks and enhance resilience. The session will showcase case studies and evidence from the Himalayas, highlighting innovative strategies like integrated water resource management, ecosystem-based approaches, and community-led initiatives. Participants will explore the role of early warning systems, scenario planning, and cross-sectoral collaboration in addressing the challenges of water governance in mountainous regions. Special attention will focus on vulnerable populations, including women, indigenous communities, and subsistence farmers, who are disproportionately affected by water insecurity. By fostering dialogue on actionable solutions and sustainable policy frameworks, the session aims to promote resilience and adaptation in the Himalayan region. It will also emphasize the urgency of proactive measures to tackle the growing challenges of water insecurity in one of the world’s most climate-sensitive regions. Lastly, it will also explore when the crisis is chronic leading to limits to adaptation.