The report states that there is an immediate and growing threat to the water security of nearly two billion people who depend on the 12 major river basins originating from the Hindu Kush.
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The Hindu Kush Himalayan region has seen a 27.8 percent decrease in snow cover compared to the long-term average. According to the 'Snow Update Report 2026' released by ICIMOD, this is the fourth consecutive year of below-average snowfall in the region.
Experts say this continued decline indicates a systemic erosion of seasonal snow cover across the world's highest mountain region. The report states that the water security of about two billion people who depend on the 12 major river basins originating from the Hindu Kush is at immediate and increasing risk. Of these, 10 river basins are currently experiencing below-average snowfall. The Mekong, Tarim and Tibetan Plateau regions have recorded their lowest snowfall in 24 years.
'The decline in seasonal snowpack appears to be a permanent trend,' said Sher Muhammad, the report's author. 'The 2026 data shows a serious situation, with 10 out of 12 basins below average and some recording the lowest snowpack in two decades.'
Seasonal snowmelt accounts for 77.5 percent of the annual runoff in the Helmand Basin and 74.4 percent in the Amu Darya Basin. The decline in snowpack will have a direct impact on drinking water, irrigation, hydropower generation and ecosystems. This is particularly worrisome for water supply and flood management.
Experts say that spring runoff will decrease and water shortages in low-lying areas will increase, especially in the western river basins.
Farmers in the Indus, Helmand and Amu Darya basins are also facing irrigation shortages during the early stages of crop planting, the report said. The report also warns that hydropower projects in the Yangtze, Mekong and Brahmaputra regions, where the Three Gorges Dam is operating, could see below-average yields in the summer. If the crisis continues, it will be difficult to replenish groundwater and soil moisture. The report warns that the risk of drought will increase.
Only two basins have seen above-average snowfall. The Ganges basin has seen 16.3 percent and the Irrawaddy 21.8 percent. But this is not enough to balance the overall regional crisis, the Mor report said. In contrast, the Mekong has seen a 59.5 percent decline in snowfall, the Tibetan Plateau 47.4 percent and the Salween 41.8 percent.
ICIMOD has also urged national and local bodies to immediately implement drought preparedness and response plans, increase investment in water conservation and efficiency, and strengthen cooperation in cross-border water use.
The Hindu Kush Himalayan region includes countries such as Nepal, China, India, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. The region is home to the world's highest mountains, including Mount Everest. The region has the highest amount of snow after the polar regions.
