ISLAMABAD –
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday pledged a Rs4 billion relief and reconstruction package for Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), as the region grapples with the aftermath of deadly monsoon floods that have claimed lives and caused extensive damage.
During a day-long visit to the flood-ravaged region, the prime minister reviewed ongoing rescue and rehabilitation efforts, met with local officials and victims’ families, and distributed compensation cheques among those who lost loved ones.
The premier’s visit follows catastrophic cloudbursts and flash floods that struck GB’s Babusar and surrounding areas on July 21. So far, 10 people—mostly tourists—have been confirmed dead, while several others remain missing. The region has been battered by unrelenting rains since late June, with landslides and damaged infrastructure compounding the crisis.
“We are facing the brutal consequences of climate change,” PM Shehbaz remarked, while announcing the relief fund. “I assure you this is not a one-time visit. I will keep returning until every affected person is back in their home.”
Focus on Climate Resilience
Addressing the cheque distribution ceremony, Shehbaz stressed the urgent need for preparedness in the face of recurring natural disasters. He directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to begin immediate mapping of damaged infrastructure and submit a comprehensive report. He also ordered the rapid deployment of an advanced weather alert system across tourist hotspots in GB.
“Pakistan is among the ten countries most vulnerable to climate change, despite contributing very little to global emissions,” the PM noted. “We need stronger coordination between federal and local governments to mitigate future losses.”
The prime minister laid the foundation stone of a Daanish School in the region and announced that a 100-megawatt solar power project had also been approved and would begin operations soon.
Relief and Rescue Operations
The NDMA briefed the prime minister on the progress of rescue efforts, revealing that over 600 people had been evacuated and that five temporary tent villages had been established. Helicopters and C-130 aircraft were deployed to rescue stranded tourists.
The Ministry of Climate Change reported progress on the installation of an early warning system for glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), with PM Shehbaz instructing its completion within two months.
The premier also held meetings with GB Governor Syed Mehdi Shah and Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan to discuss the relief operations, security concerns, and ongoing development projects. Both officials appreciated the federal government’s swift response.
Local Leaders Welcome Support
GB government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq described the PM’s visit as a “lifeline” for flood-hit residents. “The region has suffered over Rs20 billion in damages. Federal assistance is like oxygen for GB,” he said.
With glacial melting, erratic weather, and flash floods becoming more frequent, Shehbaz underscored the critical role of the Ministry of Climate Change. He praised Minister Musadik Malik for mobilizing international support and securing funds for climate-resilient infrastructure.
The prime minister pledged to return after the monsoon season to review the implementation of rehabilitation plans and to lay the groundwork for more development initiatives in the region.
