Diamer, July 23 — Pakistan’s northern region is in crisis as the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issued a fresh warning of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), even as over 200 stranded tourists were rescued from GB’s flood-ravaged Diamer district.
Triggered by intense cloudbursts, floods have torn through valleys and cut off key roads, pushing the region to the brink. At least five people have died in the last 24 hours, with up to 30 still missing, primarily from the Babusar area, according to Diamer Deputy Commissioner Attaullah Kakar.
Rising Threat of GLOFs
The PMD warned on Tuesday that ongoing heavy rainfall could worsen conditions in glaciated zones, increasing the likelihood of GLOFs, flash floods, and landslides. Scattered rain and thunderstorms—some severe—are expected to continue through the week across GB and KP, raising fresh concerns for local communities and travellers.
Tourists Rescued, Emergency Declared
According to GB government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq, more than 200 tourists stranded near Babusar have been rescued and shifted to Chilas, where they’ve been provided temporary shelter in hotels and guest houses. Many had been out of contact with their families for hours during the storm.
Military helicopters from the Force Command Northern Areas (FCNA) have been airlifting food and medical aid, and assisting in evacuations. One of the deceased will be flown out later today, said DC Kakar.
Authorities have declared a state of emergency along the Thack-Babusar Road, completely suspending tourist movement between Zero Point and Babusar Top. The district magistrate’s notification directed that travellers at both ends be halted, and advised all residents and tourists to evacuate to safer areas.
Local Communities Step In
Local residents and volunteers played a key role in early rescue efforts. Muhammad Ali, a social worker, said 30 vehicles were washed away, but many people were saved by the timely action of locals. Shahabuddin, a Chilas resident, said villagers opened their homes to tourists and helped carry out first response rescue and relief work.
Meanwhile, the Chilas District Headquarters Hospital has been placed on emergency alert, with all doctors and paramedics recalled to assist the injured, as per a directive from Medical Superintendent Dr. Abdul Mobin.
Six construction companies have been ordered to dispatch excavators for road clearance and recovery efforts, according to district officials.
An emergency control room has been activated and will operate 24/7. Authorities urge people to avoid travelling in the area and to report any emergencies at 05812-920181 or 05812-930037.