Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) is once again grappling with nature’s fury as a glacial lake outburst flood in Ghizer district unleashed destruction on Friday, creating an artificial lake and submerging multiple villages.
Officials confirmed that while financial losses are extensive, no human casualties have been reported so far.
According to GB government spokesperson Faizullah Firaq, the glacier burst at Tali Das in Gupis triggered heavy flooding and landslides. The disaster completely blocked the Gilgit–Shandur Road, cutting off access to several areas, including Raushan village.
Ghizer’s additional deputy commissioner revealed that a massive landslide in Raushan had blocked the Ghizer River around 3am, leading to water buildup and flooding. Fortunately, timely warnings allowed residents to evacuate, preventing loss of life.
Rescue teams immediately launched operations, shifting nearly 200 affected people to safer areas including Sumal and Yangal. According to rescue incharge Raja Ajmal, water flow in the Ghizer River resumed after being blocked for six hours, easing the flood threat to low-lying settlements.
Read More: Over 300 dead as floods ravage northern Pakistan, army leads relief efforts
Six individuals stranded in the Rawshan drain were also being assisted, while over 50 people have already been rescued. Helicopters from the Force Command Northern Areas were dispatched to aid rescue efforts after reports of stranded villagers surfaced.
GB Home Minister Shams Lone acknowledged the devastation caused but expressed relief that no lives were lost. He confirmed that the GB chief minister is personally monitoring the situation.
⚠️ خطرے کی گھنٹی..
— Gilgit Baltistan Tourism. (@GBTourism_) August 22, 2025
عطا اباد ہنزہ کے بعد غزر میں ایک اور جھیل !!
اج صبح سویرے سیلاب کی وجہ سے دریا کے بہاؤ کے رکنے سے ہنزہ اعطا اباد جھیل کی طرح ایک نئی جھیل غزر ویلی می بننے کا خدشہ پیدا ہو گیا ہے۔ اور دوسرا جھیل بننے کے امکانات ہیں، جو بڑے خطرے کی نشاندہی کر رہا ہے pic.twitter.com/9RQHEyM18R
Authorities have warned that the artificial lake created by the outburst still poses a serious threat to nearby communities, with the potential for further flooding if water levels rise.
Adding to the region’s woes, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast a fresh spell of rain, wind, and thunderstorms from August 23 to 27 across Gilgit-Baltistan. Heavy falls are expected in Diamer, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, and Shigar, raising the risk of further landslides and mudslides.
The Met Office has urged residents and authorities to remain vigilant, warning of potential road blockages in vulnerable hilly areas.
