The ongoing heat wave in Gilgit-Baltistan has once again highlighted the effects of climate change. Due to high temperatures, glaciers are melting rapidly, which has increased the flow of water in rivers, streams and waterways to an unprecedented extent. As a result of this situation, incidents of flash floods, mudslides and erosion of river banks have been reported in various districts, while infrastructure, agricultural land and public property have been damaged in several areas.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert in view of the possible threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in the Hooper and Hispar valleys of the Nagar district. According to the agency, rising temperatures and recent rains have increased the water pressure in glacial lakes, which can lead to flash floods at any time.
According to experts, Pakistan is among the countries in the world that are being affected the most by the effects of climate change. Among the thousands of glaciers in the northern regions, several are such that the lakes formed around them can take a dangerous shape during extreme heat. If timely monitoring and safety measures are not taken, these lakes can suddenly burst and pose a major threat to the lower settlements, roads and agricultural areas.
In recent days, the increase in water flow in Ghanche district affected several communication roads, while the suspension bridge over the Hoshe Nallah was submerged. Due to this, the land connection of several villages was temporarily cut off. The district administration has deployed heavy machinery to control the situation, and the work of restoring the affected roads and bridges is underway.
On the other hand, the Karakoram Highway remained closed for some time due to a flash flood at Ghor Hill near Khunjerab, which affected trade activities and passenger traffic between Pakistan and China. Many freight vehicles and tourists were stranded for hours waiting for the road to open. Later, the relevant agencies removed the debris and restored the highway for traffic.
Floodwaters damaged homes, crops, power transmission systems and communication roads in several areas of Ghizer, including Ishkoman, Matramdan and Maulaabad. Locals have expressed fears that if the water level rises further, the artificial lake built last year could prove dangerous for nearby communities. Similarly, several houses have also been reported to have been damaged due to the change in the direction of the river.
Rescue 1122 Gilgit-Baltistan has issued a special advisory for citizens and tourists, advising them to stay away from rivers, streams, glaciers and fast-flowing water. The agency warned that activities such as crossing floodwaters, taking pictures on the banks of rivers, bathing or collecting firewood can be life-threatening. Parents have also been appealed to prevent children from going near dangerous places.
Experts say that the current situation is not just a weather event but reflects the growing effects of climate change. According to him, modern early warning systems, glacier monitoring, safe infrastructure, strengthening of river banks and awareness of local population have become indispensable to deal with such threats in the future. He stressed that federal and provincial institutions should adopt a joint strategy to protect human lives, property and important highways from possible natural disasters.