AUTHORS: Sheralizoda N.Sh., Navruzshoev Kh.D., Kabutov Kh., Saidzoda S.M., Saidzoda Kh.
Under the supervision of Sheralizoda N.Sh.
Pulsating Glaciers: Classification and Dynamics in Tajikistan
Pulsating glaciers are generally categorized into three groups:
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Glaciers that exhibit movement once every 5–10 years.
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Glaciers that undergo pulsation on an annual basis.
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Glaciers whose pulsation occurs once every 20–25 years or more.
Dynamics of Pulsating Glaciers in Tajikistan: Observations and Analysis
The high-altitude Pamir region is notable for its high concentration of pulsating glaciers, whose dynamic behavior is particularly prominent. Each year, no fewer than ten glaciers are observed in an active phase. A typical pulsation lasts from 1 to 2 years, occasionally extending up to 5 years. Modern remote sensing techniques make it possible to identify these glaciers and conduct regular monitoring of their condition.
Systematic research began in the 1970s and included satellite imagery, aerial photography, and field observations. Around 60 indicators associated with the onset and progression of pulsations were identified at the time, many of which are visible in satellite images. Despite the high informativeness of remote data, interpretation still requires validation through field observations.
The most active glaciers are concentrated in the Surkhob, Obikhingou, and Muksu river basins. For example, between 2018 and 2020, the Dorofeev Glacier exhibited a strong pulsation, advancing up to 970 meters onto the Gando Glacier. Similar processes were observed at the Byrs and Shaklysu glaciers, which pulsate at intervals of 20–30 years. Comparable reactivation has also been recorded at the Vali Glacier and Glacier No. 255 on the slopes of the Lenin Peak massif.
Located in the Vanj River basin, the Medvezhiy Glacier is the most studied and poses a threat to local infrastructure. Its movements occur every 13–14 years. Since the 1960s, comprehensive research combining fieldwork and remote sensing has been conducted here, including aero-topographic monitoring that has enabled detailed tracking of its pulsation development.
Thus, the Pamir region serves as a unique natural laboratory for studying glacier instability mechanisms. The systematic use of both remote and ground-based observation methods is essential for forecasting hazardous glacial processes.
Surging glaciers of the Muksu River basin