A major landslide has blocked Baltistan Road near Shangus in Skardu’s Roundu Valley, leaving thousands of passengers and tourists stranded. The incident occurred on Thursday morning, October 22, disrupting traffic along a key route in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The road remains dangerous as debris continues to slide down the mountainside. Authorities have urged travellers to avoid unnecessary journeys until clearance work is completed.
Boulders Prevent Immediate Road Clearance
The Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA) confirmed that traffic had been suspended after the landslide completely blocked the road.
Large boulders and debris have made clearance difficult. The Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) is mobilising a blasting team to remove the obstacles and reopen the route.
Meanwhile, the GBDMA has advised tourists and residents to avoid travelling through the affected area. Officials have also warned people against attempting to cross the landslide zone because further movement could occur.
Travellers can contact the police helpline at 15 before setting out to check the latest road conditions.
Key Route Faces Recurring Landslides
The 167-kilometre Baltistan Road, formerly known as the Juglot-Skardu Road, runs alongside the Indus River. It connects communities across the region and serves residents of Skardu, Kharmang, Shigar and Ghanche districts.
However, frequent landslides and dangerous road conditions have made the route a serious safety concern. Residents have repeatedly raised concerns about inadequate roadside barriers, warning signs and telecommunications facilities.
The road was reconstructed and inaugurated in 2021. Nevertheless, local residents allege that some safety measures were not properly implemented during reconstruction.
Authorities Urge Caution
The road was expected to remain closed through Friday while clearance efforts continued. Authorities have stressed that public safety must take priority until the affected stretch becomes safe.
The latest incident has renewed calls for stronger preventive measures to protect motorists and passengers travelling through the mountainous region.
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