Great changes are taking place high in the South Asian mountains. As glaciers retreat at unprecedented rates, the loss of natural ice reservoirs is threatening the livelihoods of communities that depend on glacial melt for water.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is excited to present the eye-opening photostories of the winners of OneWater’s Walk of Water: Water Towers Contest – South Asia Prize, proudly sponsored by ADB.

Aligned with the 2025 UN World Water Development Report, the photo stories showcase glaciers and mountains that naturally preserve the world’s water, and the people living around them.

As Asia and the Pacific's climate bank, ADB is committed to raising awareness, protecting ecosystems and communities, and enhancing livelihoods and opportunities, amid accelerated glacial melt.

Discover more about ADB’s new initiatives on glacial melt: https://www.adb.org/climatebank/glacial-melt