Pakistan is grappling with a severe natural disaster as devastating flash floods and landslides, triggered by relentless monsoon rains, have claimed more than 260 lives across the country since late June. The northern region of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) has been catastrophicly hit, while thousands have been displaced in Punjab, prompting an urgent call for government intervention.
GB and Punjab Face Flood Emergency
The crisis, which has seen entire communities washed away and critical infrastructure destroyed, underscores the severe impact of climate change in one of the world’s most vulnerable regions. According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the death toll continues to rise, with children tragically accounting for nearly half of the victims.
Gilgit-Baltistan Declared Disaster-Hit, Seeks Billions in Aid
The situation in Gilgit-Baltistan is particularly dire. The region’s government has officially declared a climate emergency after floods and landslides caused what is estimated to be Rs20 billion in damages. Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan has made a formal appeal to the federal government for an immediate relief package of Rs7 billion to begin recovery efforts.
Key Damage Reported in Gilgit-Baltistan:
- Tragic Loss of Life: At least 10 fatalities have been confirmed in the region.
- Infrastructure Collapse: Over 22 kilometers of roads and 26 bridges have been completely washed away, cutting off numerous valleys.
- Widespread Destruction: More than 500 houses have been destroyed, and vital water supply systems and communication networks are down.
- Tourist Evacuations: Hundreds of stranded tourists have been evacuated from areas like Babusar and Fairy Meadows, with C-130 flights being used to transport them to safety.
The Chief Minister stated the funds are desperately needed for “relief, rehabilitation of the affected people and restoration of the damaged infrastructure.”
Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds in Punjab: Thousands Displaced by Punjab Floods
Meanwhile, in Punjab, the monsoon fury has led to a humanitarian crisis. The province has recorded the highest number of fatalities in the country, with at least 144 deaths reported.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has been conducting extensive rescue operations, evacuating thousands of people from low-lying riverine areas as major rivers like the Indus and Chenab swell to dangerous levels. Rescue teams are working around the clock to move families to safer locations and provide them with essential supplies like food and shelter.
What Happens Next?
The immediate future looks challenging. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast another intense spell of monsoon rains, warning of potential urban flooding in major cities like Lahore and Rawalpindi, and more landslides in the northern regions.
The federal government is reviewing the aid request from Gilgit-Baltistan. As relief operations continue, this disaster serves as a stark reminder of Pakistan’s vulnerability to extreme weather and the urgent need for improved climate-resilient infrastructure.
