Karakoram Highway blocked due to landslides

Torrential rains lashed Upper Kohistan and Gilgit-Baltistan’s Diamer district overnight, triggering landslides at six locations along the Karakoram Highway (KKH), police said.

Landslides near Dasu and other areas have caused the complete closure of the Karakoram Highway (KKH), stranding both freight and passenger vehicles. The highway remains blocked for all types of traffic as authorities have halted movement for safety reasons. Clearance operations have not yet started, as the region is still facing heavy rainfall and difficult conditions.

Efforts to reopen this vital trade and travel route are expected to begin once the weather conditions improve. Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has reported significant damage across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to recent rains. Since April 16, at least two people have lost their lives, and nine others have been injured in rain-related incidents. The worst-hit areas include Charsadda, Khyber, Shangla, Battagram, and Lower Chitral. Additionally, at least 11 houses were partially damaged by the heavy rains.

Relief efforts are ongoing in the affected districts, with authorities urging citizens to remain cautious amid the unstable weather conditions. The PDMA has stressed the need for continued vigilance as more rainstorms are expected. The weather forecast indicates a mix of storms and sunshine, with potential surprises ahead, so residents are advised to stay prepared for changing weather patterns.