Cloudbursts Batter Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan as Landslides Cut Off Villages
GILGIT, July 23: Torrential rains, powerful cloudbursts and rapidly melting glaciers have unleashed widespread destruction across Gilgit-Baltistan over the past two days, leaving several districts cut off as flash floods and landslides swept through mountain valleys, according to APP.
Raging floodwaters damaged homes, roads, bridges and farmland, while overflowing streams destroyed irrigation channels and drinking water systems in many areas. The Gilgit-Chitral Expressway was closed after heavy rain triggered landslides, disrupting travel and isolating communities.
On the outskirts of Gilgit city, floodwaters entered homes in Konodas, Skarkoi, Jotal and Naltar, destroying standing crops, fruit trees and household property. Residents struggled to protect their belongings as muddy torrents rushed through villages.
In Astore district, a cloudburst struck the Lous Bala area, triggering flash floods that damaged several houses and swept away livestock, crops and household goods. Landslides blocked the Astore Valley Road, cutting off several villages from the district headquarters and hampering the movement of rescue teams.
The worst damage in Rondu subdivision was reported along the Tormak stream, where powerful flood currents washed away at least three major bridges, including the Mullan Bridge. Drinking water schemes, irrigation channels and protective embankments were also destroyed, leaving villages isolated from one another.
Heavy rainfall also damaged Naltar Road at several locations, where falling rocks and debris blocked traffic, creating difficulties for local residents and tourists.
The Gilgit-Baltistan government has placed all relevant departments, rescue agencies and the Frontier Works Organisation on high alert. Heavy machinery has been deployed to reopen blocked roads, while the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority, district administrations and Rescue 1122 teams continue relief operations. Affected families are being shifted to safer locations, with emergency supplies of food, tents, medicines and clean drinking water reaching flood-hit communities.
Chief Minister Amjad Hussain Advocate directed authorities to speed up relief efforts and prioritize the protection of lives. Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has warned that more rain, cloudbursts, landslides and glacial melt are expected over the next 24 to 48 hours, urging residents and travelers to avoid unnecessary journeys and follow official safety advisories.
