AUTHORS: SHERALIZODA N.SH., MURODOV M.
UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF SHERALIZODA N.SH.
Glaciers of the Vanch River Basin
The Vanjob River Basin, located in the northwestern part of the Pamir Mountains, is one of the key hydrological features of the region. It covers an area of approximately 1920 km² and extends from south to north at elevations ranging from 1524 to 6541 meters above sea level. The total elevation difference across the basin is 1083 meters, contributing to a wide variety of climatic and landscape conditions.
The main watercourse in the basin is the Vanjob River, the fifth largest in the Panj River system. It stretches for 92 kilometers and plays a crucial role in the hydrological balance and water supply for surrounding areas. The average annual discharge of the river is 51.6 m³/s.
The Vanjob Basin is characterized by a significant glacial component. It contains 264 glaciers, which occupy 18.43% of the total basin area. The total glacier-covered area is 353.9 km², of which 282 km² (79.68%) consists of clean ice, and 71.9 km² (20.32%) is debris-covered. These glaciers are a key source of meltwater for the river, especially during the summer months.
The basin experiences varying climatic conditions from south to north, with annual precipitation ranging from 150 to 400 mm. The average annual temperature, according to data from the Khumrogi meteorological station, is about 9.9 °C. This temperature regime influences both the rate of snowmelt and glacier dynamics.
Overall, the Vanchob River Basin represents a complex mountainous hydrological system with a pronounced glacial influence, diverse topography, and distinct climatic gradients, making it a significant subject of scientific research in hydrology, glaciology, and climatology.
Map of glaciers of the Vanj River basin