G-B faces communication disruptions as floods sever fiber optic network

GILGIT: Gilgit-Baltistan faces severe communication disruptions as unprecedented floods damage critical infrastructure, leaving mobile networks unstable and internet connectivity intermittent across the region.

Internet and mobile signals have been continuously disrupted. The signals were unavailable from 11 am to 5 pm on Wednesday. The customers have also complained about slow internet and distorted mobile signals.

Freelancers and entrepreneurs in the region relying on international clients report severe communication disruptions due to the floods, leading to stalled projects and financial losses.

“We are unable to deliver work to our international clients, nor can they contact us,” said Sunail Abbas, a local freelancer in Gilgit.

The crisis has also affected families awaiting news of loved ones stranded in flood-hit areas. Azeem Hunzai, a singer from Hunza, told HUM News English that his uncle, who had undergone a medical procedure in Karachi, was returning home when he got stranded in the floods.

“He was traveling by NATCO bus bearing number plate 5807, but all passengers, including my uncle, remain out of reach due to the communication blackout,” Hunzai said.

Faizullah Faraq, spokesperson for the Gilgit-Baltistan government, attributed the communication breakdown to extensive damage to the region’s fiber optic network caused by landslides triggered by heavy rainfall at multiple locations. “There are significant challenges in restoring connectivity,” he said, adding that authorities are working to resolve the disruptions as soon as possible. The region relies heavily on fiber optic connectivity.

The spokesperson confirmed that the Karakoram Highway (KKH), which had been blocked for all forms of traffic on Wednesday, has since been reopened. However, the Babusar road remains inaccessible due to ongoing damage from the floods.

Faraq also mentioned that the bodies of Dr. Mashal from Lodhran, her brother-in-law, and others who tragically passed away have now been sent to their ancestral village. “The bodies were transferred via the Karakoram Highway for burial in their hometown,” he added.

Meanwhile, a search operation continues for those reported missing after flash floods swept across parts of Babusar Pass. However, no significant progress has been made in locating the missing individuals so far.

Faraq confirmed that all passengers stranded along the Babusar road have been successfully rescued and are currently being accommodated in hotels in Chilas city. He added that approximately 30 individuals who chose not to evacuate—either unwilling to leave their vehicles or unable to walk—have remained in the Babusar area. These individuals are being housed in local homes and a private hotel, where residents are ensuring their safety and well-being.

“Rescue and recovery efforts are being overseen directly by Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan, who is leading operations on the ground,” Faraq added.