Curfew in Gilgit and Skardu has been imposed for three days after violent protests pushed the region into a serious law and order crisis. The government announced strict restrictions in both districts from March 2 to March 4 to prevent further loss of life and property.
The Home and Prisons Department confirmed that the decision came after large-scale protests turned violent. Officials said tensions rose sharply in recent days, forcing authorities to take urgent action. The government also called in the army under Article 245 of the Constitution to support civil administration.
Security forces will remain deployed in Gilgit, Skardu, and Shigar for 14 days. The move aims to stabilize the Gilgit Baltistan security situation and prevent more clashes.
According to official figures, 14 people lost their lives during the unrest, including one security officer. In Gilgit, seven people died and 27 suffered injuries. In Skardu, seven people were killed while more than 46 others were injured. Hospitals continue to treat several wounded individuals.
The protests caused serious damage to public and private property. In Skardu, protesters set fire to the United Nations office, Green Guest House, an IT Park, and Army Public School. In Gilgit, the main United Nations office and the UNDP GLOF-2 office were also burned. The zonal head office of the Aga Khan Rural Support Program in Skardu was torched, along with 29 vehicles.
Authorities shut down all educational institutions across Gilgit Baltistan for an indefinite period due to security concerns. Officials said the Curfew in Gilgit and Skardu will follow a specific relaxation schedule to allow residents to buy essential items.
On March 2, curfew will remain in place from midnight to noon. Authorities will allow movement from noon to 4 pm. Restrictions will resume from 4 pm to midnight.
On March 3, relaxation will be allowed from midnight to 5 am. Curfew will continue from 5 am to 4 pm, followed by relief from 4 pm to 8 pm. Restrictions will again start at 8 pm and continue until 5 am.
On March 4, authorities will allow movement from 5 am to 8 am. Curfew will stay in force from 8 am to 4 pm. Residents can move from 4 pm to 8 pm before restrictions return from 8 pm to midnight.
The governor and caretaker chief minister urged citizens to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies. They asked people to respect the curfew timings and avoid any activity that could worsen the Gilgit Baltistan unrest.
Officials said the Curfew in Gilgit and Skardu is necessary to restore order. They stressed that security forces will act firmly against anyone who violates the law. Citizens have been advised to contact district authorities in case of emergency.
The administration hopes that the Curfew in Gilgit and Skardu will help bring stability back to the region and prevent further violence in the coming days.