Flash floods shut Karakoram Highway in Gilgit-Baltistan

Flash floods triggered by cloudbursts and rapid glacial melting caused widespread damage across Gilgit-Baltistan on Tuesday, disrupting transport, damaging homes and cutting off road links in several areas, according to Dawn Pakistan.

The Karakoram Highway was closed for traffic near Altashi Nullah in the Gini area of Chilas after floodwater swept through the region. Authorities also warned that rising water levels in the Hunza, Nagar and Indus rivers, along with other streams, could threaten downstream communities. Riverbank erosion was reported in multiple locations.

Ghizer district faces the heaviest damage

Ghizer district was among the worst affected areas. A temporary lake formed in Mayon village after flash floods blocked the Ishkoman River. Officials said the resulting water buildup inundated Hasis village, submerging dozens of homes, agricultural land and public infrastructure.

Residents were evacuated after floodwater entered the settlement. Locals said at least 15 houses were damaged. A school, a mosque, farmland and other infrastructure remained under water, while the Ghizer-Ishkoman Road was completely blocked, cutting access to the Ishkoman Valley.

Authorities later said water had started flowing out of the temporary lake, but the disruption had already spread across the area.

Wider disruption across the region

Flooding also damaged homes and farmland in Sherqila. Additional flood reports came from Salpi, Aishi, Damas, Haim and Dilnati. In several places, floodwater damaged roads and brought down electricity poles, disrupting power supply.

The situation added to the strain on local communities already dealing with unstable weather and fast-changing river conditions. Hundreds of tourists and residents were left stranded in different districts, according to the feed summary.

Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Hussain directed the GB Disaster Management Authority and district administrations to speed up rescue and relief efforts, Dawn Pakistan reported. The extent of the damage and the continuing response underline how vulnerable mountain communities remain when heavy rain, cloudbursts and glacial melt combine.

What residents should watch next

With river levels still a concern in parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, the main focus for officials is likely to remain on restoring road access, monitoring water outflow from the temporary lake and supporting affected families. The closure of the Karakoram Highway also raises the stakes for movement of people and goods through the region.

For now, the immediate picture is one of damaged infrastructure, blocked routes and evacuated households as flood-hit districts work through the aftermath.

FAQ

What caused the floods in Gilgit-Baltistan?

The feed says the flooding was triggered by cloudbursts and rapid glacial melting, along with heavy rainfall in parts of the region.

Which area was worst affected?

Ghizer district was among the worst hit, especially after a temporary lake formed when floodwater blocked the Ishkoman River.

Is the Karakoram Highway open?

No. The Karakoram Highway was closed near Altashi Nullah in the Gini area of Chilas after flooding.