Karakoram Highway blocked as rains trigger landslides

GILGIT: The Karakoram Highway (KKH), the sole route connecting Gilgit-Baltistan to the rest of the country, faced severe disruptions on Wednesday as landslides triggered by heavy rain blocked multiple sections, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.

According to Diamer police, the Kohistan section of the Karakoram Highway was particularly affected, with blockages reported in several areas, including Dassu and Barseen. Authorities have advised transporters to avoid the highway until further notice. Meanwhile, in Upper Hunza, heavy snowfall has also led to road closures between China and Pakistan.

A large number of vehicles, including buses carrying hundreds of passengers—among them women and children—remain stuck due to the roadblocks.

According to the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA), light snowfall began in Astore last night, intensifying into heavy snowfall. Central Astore has received 1-2 inches of snow, while surrounding areas have accumulated 3-4 inches.

Snowfall continues in District Skardu, with 3-4 inches recorded in the city so far, while upper areas have received 7-8 inches. Similarly, Center Shigar has received 3 inches of snow since last night, with 8-9 inches recorded in the upper areas of District Shigar.

Intermittent rain, snow to continue in various parts of Pakistan

In Kharmang, light snowfall has been reported, and all roads remain clear. However, electricity supply has been suspended from Mantokha and Kindrik powerhouses due to a snowfall-induced short circuit. Restoration efforts are currently underway.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted moderate rainfall and thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds expected in various parts of Gilgit-Baltistan from February 25 to March 2, 2025. Additionally, heavy snowfall is predicted in some areas, increasing the risk of landslides in mountainous regions.

In light of this forecast, the GBDMA has urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions and to exercise caution near billboards, power lines, and old trees. People residing in hazardous locations, particularly those near glaciers and weak infrastructure, are advised to take necessary precautions. Tourists have also been advised to remain vigilant during the rainy period.

Furthermore, the GBDMA directed the Executive Engineer of B&R and the XEN of Water & Power to keep staff and machinery on high alert to respond to any emergency. Immediate action must be taken to clear blocked roads and restore power supply in case of disruptions.

The GBDMA has instructed the Rescue 1122 Officer to keep machinery and staff prepared for emergencies, while assistant commissioners of subdivisions have been directed to keep their field staff on high alert. The district health officers (DHOs) have also been advised to ensure doctors, ambulances, and medical staff remain available for emergencies.