On a historical scale

Map of the Himalayas 
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The Himalayas are one of the youngest mountain ranges in the world. Its origins can be traced back to the Jurrasic era about 80 million years ago. It was the result of the two landmasses Eurasian and Indo-Australian tectonic plates colliding and uplifting what was discovered as the highest mountain range. The Himalayan mountain system stretches east to west from the Indus river valley to the Brahmaputra river valley running about 1,500 miles long (2,400 km). The Himalayas receives most of its recognition for being home to one of the popular tourist attractions, Mt. Everest, which is the highest peak amongst the summits measuring up to 29,002 ft. The first successful ascension was made in 1953.

Mount Everest
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Tribes and Culture

The Himalayas spans throughout 5 nations: Bhutan, China, India, Nepal and Pakistan. It is also responsible for combining major river systems that serve up to 3 billion people in 18 different countries.

Shimla located in the north-east Himalayas

Population settlement and economic patterns are widely influenced by climate and topographic variations. Most people maintain their living through agriculture and farming. Although some remote areas have successfully preserved their cultural identity, it has imposed harsh living conditions that prevents intermingling and restricts migration. However, the Himalayas is a historical landmark that has helped shape the culture of South Asia. Many people travel here on a spiritual quest to find solace and peace. On a religious standpoint, the peaks are known to be sacred in Sikhism, Buddhism, and Hinduism.

Future Impact

Due to climate change, the overall impact will be affected by population growth, economic development, and industrialization. Depending on the rate of change, the climate will cause more pressure on the environment and its natural resources.

The Himalayas produce a substantial amount of glaciers which people rely on as a source of fresh water. However almost 67% have already retreated at a rate of 10 m per year and also run the risk of flooding. Warmer temperatures and high humidity may cause a decrease in snow accumulation resulting in water shortages the will overall affect the communities, forests, and agriculture.

Climate change will also affect biodiversity. Forests make up about 29% of the Himalayas and are essential for regulating greenhouse gases in order to reduce the impact of climate change. However, due to the rapid changes in climate forests have now begun to degenerate. In the future, climate change will pose a negative effect by altering habitats and ecosystems, as well as endangering the survival of plant and animal species. 

The Bigger Picture

Overall, the traditional social and cultural structure provides a positive habitat for life in the Himalayas. Many people travel from far distances to experience and embrace the richness of the culture and the environment. Though many people who seclude themselves in the mountains are accustomed to a simple lifestyle, it is still the responsibility of government to provide reliable services. Technological upgrades and innovations can improve their living conditions. Satellite TV programs are broadcasted from Europe and the US allowing access to global news. Also, transportation and communication help to boost the economy.

As far as future risk reduction, flash floods are the main natural disaster that occurs in the Himalayas . They account for over 70% of economic losses and casualties. It is important that the community is well informed on policies and procedures on how to adapt to climate change and manage their water resources. 

References

1. <http://www.indiweb.in/tourism/5-best-places-to-visit-in-india/>

2. <http://www.explore-himalaya.com/himalaya_people.php> 

3. <http://www.climate4life.org/about-climate-change/impacts.html>

4. <http://books.icimod.org/uploads/tmp/icimod-the_changing_himalayas.pdf>

5. <http://himalayanlife.wordpress.com/himalayas/>