Gilgit | July 19, 2025
In a much-needed move to preserve its breathtaking natural landscapes, the Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) government has imposed a five-year ban on the construction of new hotels near its iconic lakes — a decision that environmentalists and locals alike have long demanded.
Known for its raw, untouched beauty, Gilgit-Baltistan is home to more than 13,000 glaciers — more than anywhere else in the world outside the polar regions. The region, with its snow-draped peaks, winding rivers, and crystal-clear lakes, has seen a massive influx of tourists in recent years. But with that boom has come an unintended consequence: unregulated hotel construction that is now threatening the very environment that draws visitors here in the first place.
A government official confirmed the ban this week, citing urgent concerns over environmental degradation. “We cannot allow unchecked development to destroy our lakes, our glaciers, and the ecosystem that sustains local life,” the official stated. The ban is expected to apply to areas surrounding major tourist hotspots like Attabad Lake, Sheosar Lake, and Rama Lake, among others.
Over the past few years, scenic lakesides that were once untouched and tranquil have seen a surge of concrete structures — many built without proper planning or environmental assessments. What began as a way to accommodate growing numbers of visitors quickly turned into a race to build, often at the expense of nature.
Locals have raised alarm over increased pollution, disrupted water flows, and garbage disposal issues. Environmental activists have also pointed out how unregulated development is accelerating the melting of nearby glaciers, many of which are already under threat due to global climate change.
“Tourism should never come at the cost of nature,” says Zehra Khan, an environmentalist based in Skardu. “If we’re not careful, we’ll end up destroying the very thing people come here to see.”
The decision to freeze hotel construction near lakes has received praise from both conservationists and some in the tourism industry who believe in sustainable growth. However, it also raises questions about how the region will manage the increasing number of tourists expected in the coming years.
The government says alternative solutions are being considered, including promoting eco-tourism, encouraging home stays, and upgrading existing facilities rather than building new ones. There’s also talk of enforcing stricter regulations on waste management and building codes to ensure the environment is not further compromised.
As tourists continue to flock to the stunning valleys and serene lakes of Gilgit-Baltistan, this bold step sends a strong message: development will not be allowed to outpace preservation. For now, the lakes can breathe a little easier.
