At least nine people have died and dozens injured as floods and landslides, triggered by heavy monsoon rains, continue to devastate Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), officials confirmed on Friday. The region, already vulnerable to climate change, faced intense damage due to cloudbursts and flash flooding in areas like Babusar and Naran earlier this week.
According to GB government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq, the fatalities include two women and two children. He added that between 12 and 14 people may still be missing after being swept away by floodwaters. More than 300 stranded tourists have been rescued so far, but the ongoing rains and landslides are complicating relief operations across the mountainous terrain.
Faraq detailed the scale of destruction, stating that over 500 homes and 12 kilometers of road have been washed away. Additionally, 27 bridges and 22 vehicles were destroyed, along with dozens of cattle sheds, shops, and timber stocks. Thousands are also without access to clean water and electricity due to damaged supply systems.
The Pakistan Army and Gilgit-Baltistan Scouts have joined forces in rescue efforts, aiding both locals and tourists trapped by blocked routes or rising waters. Emergency supplies and temporary shelters are being provided to displaced families, while engineers are working to restore broken infrastructure.
Meanwhile, in Punjab’s Gujar Khan, rescue divers are searching for a 17-year-old boy, Arman, who was swept away while crossing a flooded stream. Despite combing 12 kilometers of the area, his body remains missing. His family, while devastated, expressed satisfaction with the rescue efforts. The tragedy has sparked protests, as residents demand improved safety measures during monsoon season.