Gilgit:
A large part of Karakoram Highway (KKH) in Upper Hunza’s Morkhun area was swept away by the river Erosion on Friday, which effectively dismissed the land route between Pakistan and China, according to Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) government.
The situation was triggered by an increase in river flow caused by accelerated ice melting, a result of rising temperatures throughout the region. The increased water levels have caused local flooding in several areas of GB, which constitute serious threats to infrastructure and public security.
GB government spokesman Faizullah Faraq confirmed that the increased flow of water in regional rivers led to erosion of a section of KKH, which has now been made unavailable. He said chief minister Haji Gulbar Khan has ordered immediate restoration of the highway.
Karakoram Highway is a critical trade and itinerary that connects Pakistan to China. Faraq added that relevant departments have been sent to Morkhun to perform emergency repair work.
Meanwhile, rescue teams in Skardu continue their search for tourists who disappeared after a boat enclosed in the Zhouq Kachura area. Authorities suspect that high water flow in the lakes fed with ice runoff may have contributed to the accident.
Faraq reminded the public that boating in lakes due to security concerns has been strictly prohibited and section 144 has been imposed in affected areas to ban such activities. “We are intervening against individuals and tour operators who violate this ban and jeopardize life,” he said.
Section 144 In the criminal case, local authorities allow for limiting gatherings and specific activities to ensure public security in emergencies. The latest incident increases a number of climate -related disasters affecting GB.
Since June, Pakistan has witnessed serious floods performed by Cloudbursts, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFS) and intense monsoon rain. GB is still one of the most affected regions due to its mountainous terrain and vulnerability to glown melting.
With the monsoon season still ongoing and temperatures that continue to rise, officials have warned of further climate-induced disruptions and encouraged both residents and visitors to show caution and follow government advice.
