A glacial lake outburst in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Ghizer district has once again triggered flooding and widespread destruction, officials confirmed on Friday. The incident has also resulted in the creation of an artificial lake, raising concerns for nearby villages.
GB government spokesperson Faizullah Firaq said the glacier burst at Tali Das in the Gupis area unleashed heavy flooding and caused massive damage. He confirmed that several villages were submerged, leading to severe financial losses. Fortunately, no human casualties have been reported so far.
According to district authorities, landslides completely blocked the Gilgit–Shandur Road. The landslides occurred on both sides of the Tali Das stream, cutting off Raushan village from surrounding areas. The additional deputy commissioner of Ghizer reported that since 3 am, a landslide in Raushan had fully blocked the flow of the Ghizer River, further increasing the scale of destruction.
Officials said timely warnings helped residents evacuate, preventing any loss of life. GB Home Minister Shams Lone also confirmed that while the flood had caused major devastation in Ghizer, no deaths had been reported. He added that some residents had become stranded, prompting an urgent request for helicopter assistance.
A Force Command Northern Areas helicopter was dispatched on an emergency basis to support rescue operations. Meanwhile, over 50 people have already been rescued, according to government spokesperson Firaq. He said the glacial lake outburst had blocked the river flow, causing water to back up and form a large lake. This new body of water now threatens nearby communities with the risk of submergence. He added that the GB chief minister was personally monitoring the crisis.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast fresh spells of rain across parts of the country starting Saturday. According to the Met Office, Gilgit-Baltistan is expected to see rain, winds, and thunderstorms between August 23 and 27. Heavy showers are predicted in Diamer, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, and Shigar.
The Met Office also warned that landslides and mudslides may disrupt road links in vulnerable hilly areas during this period. Authorities and residents have been advised to remain on high alert.
The glacial lake outburst in Ghizer serves as another reminder of the growing environmental threats in the region. With rising risks of floods and landslides, officials are urging timely precautions to safeguard lives and property.
