Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has unveiled a Rs4 billion relief and rehabilitation package for Gilgit-Baltistan following a catastrophic cloudburst near Babusar Top that caused significant loss of life, property, and infrastructure.
During his visit to the flood-stricken region, the prime minister distributed compensation cheques to victims and pledged sustained support for long-term development and climate resilience across GB.
According to officials, the cloudburst on July 21 triggered intense rainfall across areas including Thak-Babusar, Thor, Kunddas, and Ishkoman, affecting dozens of locals and tourists. A coordinated rescue operation led by the NDMA, Pakistan Army, local authorities, and other agencies safely evacuated over 600 people. Relief efforts included the establishment of five tent cities and emergency aid flights utilizing 10 helicopters and two C-130 aircraft.
Compensation and Development Commitments
At a cheque distribution ceremony, PM Shehbaz said, “While no financial aid can fully heal the trauma endured by the victims, the government stands firmly with the people of Gilgit-Baltistan in this difficult time.”
He announced compensation of Rs500,000 for those with serious injuries and Rs200,000 for those with minor injuries — amounts similar to the 2022 flood relief measures. He also confirmed that a comprehensive damage assessment will be undertaken, and he plans to revisit the region by the end of August to finalize the next phase of recovery and development.
The prime minister reaffirmed his commitment to development projects in the region, announcing that the 100MW solar energy project will be completed within the year. He also revealed plans to establish Daanish Schools in Skardu and other areas to improve access to quality education in GB.
High-Level Review and Climate Resilience
Earlier, PM Shehbaz chaired a high-level review meeting in Gilgit, where federal ministers, GB leadership, and NDMA officials briefed him on relief progress and rehabilitation plans. Participants included Federal Ministers Engineer Amir Muqam, Abdul Aleem Khan, Attaullah Tarar, Mian Moeen Wattoo, Dr. Musadik Malik, PM’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah, Coordinator Shabbir Ahmed Usmani, GB Governor Syed Mehdi Shah, and Chief Minister Gulbar Khan.
During the briefing, the prime minister emphasized Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change, despite its negligible contribution to global emissions. “The recent monsoon disasters in Gilgit-Baltistan and other parts of the country are a stark reminder of our climate crisis,” he said.
He instructed federal institutions to work closely with the GB government and ensure swift delivery of aid and rehabilitation efforts. He also announced the establishment of an early warning and monitoring center in Gilgit-Baltistan, to be completed within two months in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change.
GLOF Warning System
Officials informed the prime minister that the Ministry of Climate Change is expediting the installation of a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) early warning system, set for completion within two months. PM Shehbaz directed that a third-party validation be conducted once the system is in place, to ensure its effectiveness and reliability.
