Study of solute sources and evolution of hydrogeochemical processes of the Chhota Shigri Glacier meltwaters,Himachal Himalaya,India

Abstract

This study was carried out from 2003 to 2007 to understand the hydrogeochemical processes and the solute sources of the meltwaters of the Chhota Shigri Glacier, Himalaya. The meltwater is almost neutral to slightly alkaline in nature: bicarbonate and sulphate are the dominant anions, while calcium and magnesium are the dominant cations. Bicarbonate is found to be derived from carbonate weathering and partly from silicate weathering. Rock weathering followed by precipitation are the main controlling factors that influence the meltwater chemistry of this region. The relatively high values of pCO₂ reflect a higher rate of solubility in comparison to release of excess CO₂ gas to the atmosphere. The presence of active hydrogeochemical processes and sediment–water interaction results in excess solute transport through the meltwater to the Chandra River that feeds the Chenab, one of the great Himalayan river systems, and ultimately flows into the ocean. This study is the first of its kind to understand in detail the hydrogeochemical process and resultant solute load transport in this Himalayan glacier.

Citation Sharma, P., Ramanathan, A.L., and Pottakkal, J., 2013. Study of solute sources and evolution of hydrogeochemical processes of the Chhota Shigri Glacier meltwaters, Himachal Himalaya, India. Hydrological Sciences Journal, 58 (5), 1128–1143.

Editor Z.W. Kundzewicz