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DAILY NEWS ANALYSIS
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16 February, 2026
4 Min Read
The much-awaited Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River has been deferred due to inadequate ice formation this winter. The trek depends on the river freezing into a thick sheet of ice, and insufficient freezing has made the route unsafe for trekkers.
About Zanskar River
The Zanskar River is a major left-bank tributary of the Indus River and flows entirely within the Union Territory of Ladakh in northern India. It drains the remote and rugged Zanskar Valley in the northwestern Himalayas and forms an important part of the Indus river system.
The river flows through a cold desert landscape characterized by high mountains, deep gorges, and glacial formations.
Origin and Course
The Zanskar River originates at high altitudes in the Himalayas and is formed by two main branches.
One branch is the Doda River, whose main source lies near the Pensi-La Pass. The second branch is formed by the Kargyag River, originating near Shingo La, and the Tsarap River, originating near Baralacha La.
After the confluence of these tributaries, the river flows in a northwestward direction and eventually meets the Indus River near Nimmu in Ladakh at an elevation of about 3,100 meters.
Geographical and Geomorphological Features
The Zanskar River is renowned for carving the spectacular Zanskar Gorge, which is a deep and narrow canyon formed over thousands of years through glacial and river erosion.
Important geographical features include:
A U-shaped valley, indicating strong glacial influence.
Presence of several hanging valleys.
A catchment area shaped largely by glacial action.
These features make the region significant for the study of Himalayan geomorphology.
Adventure and Tourism Significance
The Zanskar River offers immense opportunities for adventure tourism.
During the summer season, tourists participate in river rafting, particularly in the stretch between Chilling and Nimmu.
During the winter season, the river freezes and forms a sheet of ice known locally as “Chadar,” meaning blanket. The Chadar Trek involves walking over this frozen river and is considered one of the most unique and challenging winter treks in India.
Reason for Deferment of Chadar Trek
The trek has been postponed because of inadequate ice formation, which may be associated with:
Rising winter temperatures
Changing climatic conditions
Reduced snowfall or altered freezing patterns
Since the trek requires thick, stable ice for safety, insufficient freezing poses serious risks to participants.
Significance
The deferment highlights:
The impact of climate variability on fragile Himalayan ecosystems.
The vulnerability of adventure tourism to environmental changes.
The importance of sustainable tourism practices in ecologically sensitive regions.
Source: INDIAN EXPRESS
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