The article "Importance and vulnerability of the world’s water towers" by Immerzeel et al. (2020) assesses the global significance and vulnerability of mountain water towers, which are critical for sustaining both natural and anthropogenic water demands. The study introduces the first global Water Tower Index (WTI), which ranks water towers based on their water-supplying role and downstream ecosystem and societal dependence. The WTI is derived from a supply index (SI) and a demand index (DI), combining indicators such as precipitation, snow cover, glacier ice storage, and surface water. The analysis reveals that the most important water towers, primarily located in Asia, are also among the most vulnerable due to climate change, governance issues, and socio-economic factors. The Indus basin, in particular, is highlighted as a critical yet vulnerable water tower, facing hydro-political tensions, increasing population, and projected climate changes. The study emphasizes the need for conservation and policy actions to safeguard these vital water resources and ensure water, food, and energy security for downstream populations.The article "Importance and vulnerability of the world’s water towers" by Immerzeel et al. (2020) assesses the global significance and vulnerability of mountain water towers, which are critical for sustaining both natural and anthropogenic water demands. The study introduces the first global Water Tower Index (WTI), which ranks water towers based on their water-supplying role and downstream ecosystem and societal dependence. The WTI is derived from a supply index (SI) and a demand index (DI), combining indicators such as precipitation, snow cover, glacier ice storage, and surface water. The analysis reveals that the most important water towers, primarily located in Asia, are also among the most vulnerable due to climate change, governance issues, and socio-economic factors. The Indus basin, in particular, is highlighted as a critical yet vulnerable water tower, facing hydro-political tensions, increasing population, and projected climate changes. The study emphasizes the need for conservation and policy actions to safeguard these vital water resources and ensure water, food, and energy security for downstream populations.