Multiple areas in GB remain cut off after flash floods, Glofs wash away access routes

Road access to multiple areas in Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) region has been cut off for four consecutive days, as flash floods and glacial lake outburst floods (Glofs) continue to damage infrastructure. The disruptions, triggered by rapid glacier melting due to unusually high temperatures, are hampering restoration efforts and relief operations.

The Karakoram Highway, Gilgit-Shandur Road, and Baltistan Road have been reopened. However, efforts are still underway to restore routes like the Astore Valley Road and Naltar Highway, which connect remote areas. Despite progress on major routes, thousands of residents and tourists remain stranded in various valleys.

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Between July 18 and July 21, GB recorded unprecedented temperatures, resulting in rapid glacier melting and Glof incidents in several areas

Flood-affected communities are experiencing shortages of drinking water, electricity, and communication services. The Director General of the GB Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA), Ataur Rehman Kakar, noted the increasing frequency of Glof events and accelerated glacier melt have worsened the situation this year. GB recorded unprecedented temperatures between July 18 and July 21, leading to significant glacier melt and Glof incidents.

Relief supplies, including food, tents, and medicines, have been distributed. However, residents in districts like Diamer, Astore, and Ghizer have complained about prolonged disruptions to essential services and the availability of commodities. In Nagar district, the Hisper Valley has been disconnected for nearly two months after Glof events washed away its sole access road, causing severe hardships for patients and students and worsening shortages of essential supplies.

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High water levels and mudflows in rivers and nullahs have created serious challenges for road restoration activities