Tsewang Rigzin
LEH, Mar 23: The Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), along with the Phyang village, celebrated the 1st World Day for Glaciers and World Water Day at the Phyang Ice Stupa site, near Oma Chorten.
Renowned engineer Chewang Norphel, known as the ‘Ice Man of India’ for his work in artificial glaciers, was the chief guest at the event. He appreciated the efforts of young innovators and environmentalists at HIAL, who are working to conserve water through Ice Stupas. Councilor Phyang Tundup Norbu and Gelong Rigzin from Phyang Monastery were among the prominent guests present on the occasion.
HIAL founder and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, the creator of the Ice Stupa concept, also spoke at the event. He explained how automated Ice Stupas can now be built using new technology.
HIAL’s automated smart Stupa system, which includes a weather station and remote communication module were unveiled. This new system is a big step toward using technology to protect the Himalayas from climate change.
Earlier, Ice Stupas were built manually, which meant workers had to stay outside in freezing conditions to control water flow. But over the years, Sonam Wangchuk and his team have developed digital solutions that make the process easier. Water flow, which once had to be managed manually, is now controlled digitally and remotely. The system what was developed at HIAL over the years, runs on solar-powered batteries, making it more efficient and eco-friendly.
The new automated Ice Stupa at Phyang can store 2.5 million litres of water, while some Ice Stupas in other locations can store up to 10 million litres.
This event also marked the 7th Ice Stupa Competition, where more than 25 artificial glaciers were created worldwide to promote water conservation.
In Tarchit village, locals built an Ice Stupa that holds 10 million litres of water, winning first place in this year’s Ice Stupa competition. They received a Rs 3 lakh prize from HIAL for their achievement.
The event was important this year, as 2025 has been declared the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation by the United Nations.
The graduation of 18 fellows from the HILLs Fellowship Programme (2024-2025), where they trained in sustainable mountain development, also took place on the occasion.
The celebrations at Phyang Ice Stupa showcased Ladakh’s leadership in climate innovation, proving that a mix of local knowledge, traditional methods, and modern technology can help protect water resources and tackle climate change.
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