In the aftermath of relentless rains and accelerated glacier melting, flash floods have caused widespread devastation across various parts of Gilgit-Baltistan.
The flooding, which began late Friday night, has swept away roads, homes, and vital infrastructure, leaving multiple villages in a state of high alert.
Despite the extensive destruction, no casualties have been reported so far.
The Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA) has confirmed that the Ramkha and Muskay areas of Parishing, Astore, were particularly hard-hit, with over 50 homes, cattle sheds, footbridges, and water tanks destroyed.
To aid those displaced, the GBDMA established two IDP camps, though most of the affected population is currently staying with host families.
In the Danyore subdivision of Gilgit, floodwaters wreaked havoc on the Danyore nullah, destroying the vital Manuga Road, a crucial water channel, and a waterline, leaving thousands of residents without access to drinking and agricultural water for four days.
Similarly, in Rahimabad, Gilgit, debris from the floods blocked the Hunza River, submerging low-lying areas. Though the river temporarily receded, it surged again, inundating the villages of Jutal, Faizabad, and KIU Khari.
The Guro area also suffered significant damage as floodwaters swept away a channel supplying water to a powerhouse, plunging hundreds into darkness.
In the Thagas Valley of Mashabrum, flash floods redirected water into neighboring villages, prompting the emergency evacuation of three villages and causing extensive property damage.
Tourist evacuations were necessitated as the rising Hunza River, swollen by glacier melt induced by a heatwave, posed an unprecedented threat to Passu village.
Over the past week, riverine erosion has intensified, threatening the village and its residents.
A bridge near the Dhee area of Khunjerab National Park, crucial to the trade route between Pakistan and China, is on the brink of collapse due to the increasing water flow in the Khunjerab River, raising concerns about the economic implications.
Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities urge residents in vulnerable areas to remain on high alert and prepare for potential evacuations.
The construction of homes and structures in nullahs and ravines has exacerbated the impact of the floods by obstructing natural water flow, a point of regret among officials.
In response to the crisis, Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Secretary Abrar Ahmad Mirza has directed immediate relief efforts across the affected districts.
He has invoked emergency powers to restore essential services, with a focus on critical infrastructure and basic necessities.
Mirza has also ordered a thorough damage assessment, with updates to be shared regularly with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), and has emphasized the need for swift action and effective relief distribution.
