GILGIT – August 1, 2025:
A state of emergency has been declared in 37 areas across Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) after devastating flash floods swept through the region, killing at least 10 people—mostly tourists—and leaving many others missing or displaced.
The unprecedented deluge, triggered by heavy monsoon rains, has inflicted massive destruction, with damages estimated at over Rs20 billion. The Gilgit-Baltistan Home Department issued an official notification declaring the affected areas as disaster zones under the National Calamities (Prevention and Relief Act, 1958).
The emergency covers 12 locations in Diamer, nine in Gilgit, five in Ghizer, four each in Skardu and Shigar, two in Ghanche, and one each in Nagar and Kharmang. The affected villages include Parri Bangla, Danyor, Bagrote, Biarchi, Thoi, Kondus, Haldi, and parts of the scenic Niat Valley, among others.
“People have lost their loved ones, their homes, livestock, standing crops, and all means of livelihood,” said Home Secretary Syed Ali Asghar in the official communiqué.
In a press briefing, G-B government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq confirmed the casualties and described the situation as deeply distressing.
“We’ve lost 10 lives, most of whom were tourists. Four others were injured and are receiving medical treatment. Meanwhile, rescue teams are still searching for 10 to 15 missing individuals, believed to have been swept away by floodwaters,” he said.
The floods also destroyed 509 homes and washed away 22 vehicles. Roads, bridges, water pipelines, and power infrastructure have been severely damaged, cutting off access to remote areas.
Despite the scale of destruction, the provincial government has launched immediate relief and rehabilitation efforts. “We’ve allocated Rs440 million from our own resources to begin the restoration of essential infrastructure,” Faraq added.
Emergency supplies—tents, blankets, food items, and kitchen kits—are being distributed to displaced families, while damaged houses are being rebuilt in phases. However, officials say the magnitude of the disaster far exceeds local capacity.
“The people of Gilgit-Baltistan need help,” Faraq appealed. “We urge the federal government, especially the Prime Minister, to stand with us during this crisis and ensure that the victims are not left to suffer alone.”
As the rescue operations continue and rains show no sign of letting up, concerns remain high that more remote valleys could be cut off or at further risk. For now, the region mourns its losses, braces for further challenges, and waits—hoping that relief will come before more lives are lost.
