Flood disaster in Gilgit-Baltistan leaves 10 dead

Government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq confirmed that flash floods in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) claimed the lives of at least ten people, including children.

At least ten people lost their lives in separate incidents of flooding and landslides in Gilgit-Baltistan. According to the GB government spokesperson, eight people died in Ghizer district, while two siblings were killed in Diamer. Four others, including children, sustained injuries in the two districts. The deceased include a boy, a girl, and a woman. Officials confirmed that flash floods struck 37 locations in Ghizer district alone. Road access on the Karakoram Highway has now been restored at Babusar Loshi and Gandlo.

However, authorities have advised residents in low-lying areas to remain cautious due to the risk of further flooding. In Ghizer, heavy rains triggered flash floods, sweeping away homes and infrastructure. Rescue teams were immediately deployed, and injured individuals were shifted to nearby hospitals. In Diamer, the situation also remained critical as floodwaters damaged multiple areas. Earlier on August 11, a massive landslide in Gilgit killed eight local volunteers who were repairing the flood-damaged Danyor Nullah.

Several others were injured and taken to hospitals, where emergency services were placed on high alert. Eyewitnesses reported that the landslide occurred suddenly, burying people under tonnes of earth and rocks. Rescue workers, along with local residents, managed to pull out four people alive, though they remain in critical condition. Authorities continue rescue operations in affected regions, urging the public to cooperate and avoid risky areas as heavy rains are expected to continue. The GB government is closely monitoring the situation to prevent further loss of life and property.