Research Projects

Aerosols, particularly Black Carbon (BC) aerosols, are a significant contributor to global climate change. These light-absorbing aerosols capture sunlight and transfer energy to surface features, reducing albedo and accelerating melting. The Himalayan region has experienced warming due to the absorption of solar radiation from biomass burning and fossil fuel consumption, known as Aerosol Brown Clouds. This may also affect the albedo of snow and glaciers due to the deposition of light-absorbing aerosols. This study aims to assess the impact of aerosol loading on snow albedo and glacier accumulation in sikkim Himalaya. The project will use an Environmental dust monitor to study particle size, number, and mass distribution, as well as collect fine and coarse particulate matter for chemical characterization. The atmospheric black and brown carbon associated with PM2.5 will be assessed using an Aethalometer in the glacier region. snow and ice samples will be collected at different altitudes and seasons for depositional characteristics. Remote sensing techniques will be used to quantify the reduction in snow or ice albedo due to aerosol deposition. The study will also evaluate the impact of aerosols on the discharge and melt contributions to the sustainability of downstream livelihoods.