Fresh flash floods have caused widespread destruction in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Diamer district, forcing the closure of the Karakoram Highway (KKH) and leaving tourists, passengers and freight transport stranded.
The heavy flooding damaged homes, roads, farmland and power infrastructure across several areas. As a result, residents have appealed to the government for immediate relief and restoration efforts.
Flash Floods Trigger Widespread Destruction
Torrential rainfall late at night triggered flash floods at more than six locations in Thor Valley near Chilas.
The worst-hit areas include Thor, Niyat, Khanbari and Buner Das, where floodwaters swept through residential neighborhoods, agricultural land and road networks.
Moreover, the floods washed away two houses along with household belongings. Several livestock also perished during the disaster.
Karakoram Highway Closed, Tourists Stranded
The closure of the Karakoram Highway disrupted travel across the region.
At Buner Das, long queues of vehicles formed on both sides of the highway after authorities closed the road due to dangerous conditions.
Consequently, passengers, tourists and freight transport remained stranded while waiting for the route to reopen.
The highway serves as a vital transport corridor linking Gilgit-Baltistan with other parts of Pakistan. Therefore, its closure has significantly affected regional travel.
Residential Areas Flooded in Thosarka
Floodwaters surrounded residential areas in Thosarka from both sides, preventing residents from reaching safer locations throughout the night.
Meanwhile, flood debris entered several houses, causing further damage to homes and personal belongings.
The flooding also severely affected agricultural land, standing crops and trees, increasing the losses for local communities.
Power Outages Hit Thor Valley
The floods washed away sections of the Thor link road at several locations.
As a result, traffic came to a complete standstill.
In addition, damaged electricity transmission lines caused power outages across Thor Valley and nearby areas.
Residents continued facing disruptions as electricity supplies remained suspended in several affected locations.
Heavy Losses Reported in Darel Subdivision
In Khanbari Shing Shar Nullah in the Darel subdivision, floodwaters swept away two residential houses along with their contents.
Several livestock also died during the flooding.
The floods additionally caused extensive damage to construction equipment.
According to available information, 13 dump trucks, one excavator, one crushing plant and two water tankers belonging to Hasnat Company were washed away while engaged in road construction work.
Link Roads Damaged in Chilas
The Niyat area of Chilas also suffered heavy damage after flash floods destroyed sections of the local link road.
Consequently, traffic movement became difficult, creating serious problems for residents and travelers.
The damaged roads have also affected access to nearby communities.
Residents Seek Immediate Government Relief
Residents of the affected areas have urged the government to launch immediate relief operations.
They have called for the prompt restoration of the Karakoram Highway, damaged link roads and electricity supplies.
In addition, affected families have requested compensation for the losses caused by the devastating floods.
Authorities are expected to assess the damage while restoration efforts continue in the flood-hit areas of Diamer district.
