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Karakoram Highway Blocked as Flash Floods Ravage Gilgit-Baltistan
5 Aug
Summary
- Flash floods damaged homes, roads, and agricultural land across Gilgit-Baltistan.
- Tourists and locals were left stranded due to the severe weather events.
- Authorities are assessing damage and coordinating rescue and relief operations.
Torrential rains and rapid glacial melting have caused severe flash floods across Gilgit-Baltistan, leading to widespread damage. Homes, roads, bridges, and agricultural lands have been inundated, leaving hundreds stranded. The critical Karakoram Highway was temporarily closed in Chilas, disrupting traffic and access to affected valleys.
Ghizer district faced significant devastation, with an artificial lake forming and submerging several houses and infrastructure in Hasis village. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities work to manage rising water levels in rivers and streams, which pose a threat to downstream populations.
In Gilgit district, cloudbursts caused floods in Naltar Valley, damaging houses and blocking the Naltar Highway, trapping tourists. Upper Hunza also experienced damage to the Karakoram Highway due to glacial melt. Meanwhile, Punjab authorities are reviewing flood preparedness in response to monsoon rains.
