In a tragic event that has left the community in deep sorrow, seven people lost their lives and six others sustained injuries in Gilgit-Baltistan landslide, early on Monday. The victims, mostly young volunteers, were engaged in efforts to repair a crucial water channel damaged by recent floods, highlighting the perilous conditions faced by locals striving to restore essential services.
The incident occurred around 2am in the Danyor nullah area, where a group of about 15 individuals had gathered to fix the water supply line. This channel, vital for providing drinking and irrigation water to thousands of residents in the valley, had been severely affected by flash floods on July 22. Rescue officials reported that the landslide buried the workers under rubble, prompting an immediate response from teams on the ground.
Local Communities on Gilgit-Baltistan Landslide
Among the deceased were dedicated community members, including relatives of local residents who joined the restoration work out of necessity. One participant in the rescue efforts described the scene as devastating, with bodies and the injured being transported to hospitals in Gilgit and Danyor for urgent care. An emergency was declared at medical facilities to handle the casualties, ensuring prompt treatment for those hurt.
The broader context reveals the growing toll of environmental challenges in the region. Heavy rains since late June, coupled with melting glaciers, have intensified flooding and landslides, claiming at least 10 lives across Gilgit-Baltistan so far, with several tourists still unaccounted for. The Babusar area suffered significant damage on July 21, disrupting infrastructure and leaving communities vulnerable.
Grief-stricken residents held funeral prayers for the victims, their collective mourning underscoring the human cost of these disasters. In a show of frustration, locals gathered at Danyor Chowk to protest against what they perceive as inadequate government support. Elders from the area expressed disappointment over unfulfilled promises to repair the water infrastructure, noting that temporary fixes by the community had been washed away by further flooding. They called for immediate action to prevent future losses.
Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan conveyed profound condolences to the affected families and pledged compensation in line with official policy. He also instructed authorities to provide the best possible medical aid to the injured, aiming to offer some solace amid the tragedy.
This heartbreaking episode serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life in mountainous regions, where communities band together in the face of adversity, yet often bear the brunt of delayed interventions. As families grapple with irreplaceable loss, the incident urges reflection on the urgent need for resilient measures against such natural calamities. The Gilgit-Baltistan landslide has not only shattered lives but also amplified calls for sustained support in vulnerable areas.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 11th, 2025
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