In New Delhi, the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) reported a 23-year low in Ganga Basin snow persistence. The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region is facing its third consecutive year of below-normal snowfall, raising serious concerns about water security and climate impacts.

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• Ganga Basin records lowest snow persistence in 23 years
• Report published by ICIMOD, headquartered in Kathmandu
• Snowfall in Hindu Kush Himalaya below normal for third straight year
• Snow persistence plunged to -24.1% in 2025
• Snow persistence was about 30.2% in 2015
• Experts link decline to global warming and regional climate shifts
• Ganga river vital for 500 million people’s livelihoods
• Water supply, agriculture at risk due to reduced snowmelt
• Long-term implications for biodiversity and food security feared
• Scientists urge urgent climate action and adaptation measures