Delhi University’s Himalayan Study Centre Researchers to Conduct Field Investigation in Dharamshala-Bharmour

Dharamshala, March 23, 2025: A team of 76 researchers from Delhi University’s Himalayan Study Centre, Geography Department, and Delhi School of Economics will be conducting a field investigation on climate change and natural hazards in the Dharamshala and Bharmour regions from March 24 to 28. The research is being led by Professor BW Pandey, the Director of the Himalayan Study Centre.

Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa shared this information and expressed his support for the initiative, noting that this research is part of an ongoing effort by the Himalayan Study Centre to better understand and conserve the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayan region. Bairwa pointed out that previous research expeditions by the team have taken place in areas such as Manali, Upper Beas Basin, Solang, Sissu, Koksar, and Keylong.

“The work of the Himalayan Study Centre is crucial for understanding the environmental challenges faced by the Himalayan region, including climate change and natural hazards such as earthquakes. The Dharamshala area, in particular, is highly sensitive to such environmental factors, and it is essential that we prioritize conservation efforts,” said Deputy Commissioner Bairwa.

The team will focus on several critical issues during their field investigation, including the effects of climate change on the local environment, the increasing vulnerability of the region to natural hazards, and the overall sustainability of the region’s ecosystem. The Himalayan region, known for its diverse flora and fauna, is also facing mounting pressures due to rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and human encroachment.

The research will not only involve fieldwork but also discussions with local communities and media representatives. These interactions are aimed at gathering vital information from those who live in and around the affected areas. By engaging with the local population, the researchers hope to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the community, as well as to raise awareness about the need for sustainable environmental practices.

The five-day investigation will include detailed assessments of natural hazards, including the region’s susceptibility to earthquakes. The Dharamshala region, which sits along active fault lines, is particularly vulnerable to seismic activity, making the findings of this research all the more significant. The researchers will also look into how local infrastructure can be made more resilient to such natural events.

Professor Pandey emphasized the importance of integrating local knowledge into scientific research. “The local communities have lived in these regions for generations and possess a deep understanding of their environment. Engaging them in discussions will help us gather valuable insights that can be used to formulate solutions for the ongoing environmental challenges,” he said.

Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa also reiterated the importance of involving the community in conservation efforts. “The findings from this research could provide key data that will help local authorities and residents address climate change impacts and build a more resilient future for the region.”

The research conducted by the Himalayan Study Centre is expected to provide critical data that will aid in developing strategies for mitigating climate change effects and improving the overall environmental health of the region. It also underscores the importance of collaborative research in preserving the delicate ecosystems of the Himalayan range.