Lead

Pakistan's northern regions are bracing for further flooding as the Pakistan Meteorological Department issued an alert for glacial lake outburst floods (Glofs) in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to a fresh westerly wave expected in the coming week. The alert, reported by Dawn, warns that daytime temperatures are already running above normal in glaciated valleys, and the combination of substantial warming and precipitation is likely to accelerate snow and ice melt.

The warning comes as rapid glacier melting has caused widespread damage across Gilgit-Baltistan, with floods and mudslides damaging infrastructure, homes, and farmland. According to the Ministry of Climate Change, over 7.1 million people in the two regions are vulnerable to Glofs.

Coverage Comparison

Reports from Dawn detail a multi-faceted crisis. The meteorological department's alert highlights the immediate threat of Glofs and advises residents to stay away from riverbanks, stream beds, and glacial lakes, and to monitor water bodies for sudden changes.

Separate reporting describes the impact of the heatwave: a Glof alert was issued for the Hoper and Hisper valleys in Nagar district, while floods and mudslides damaged link roads, bridges, electricity infrastructure, and agricultural land in several remote areas. A flash flood blocked the Karakoram Highway at the Ghoor Hill section near the Khunjerab Pass, stranding passengers and cargo vehicles for several hours before traffic was restored.

In Diamer district, cloudburst-induced floods caused extensive damage in Thore Valley, displacing dozens of families and destroying homes, farmland, and infrastructure. The floods also disrupted electricity and water supply systems, and floodwaters entered the Wapda Colony built for employees working on the Diamer-Bhasha Dam project.

Key Claims

  • The Pakistan Meteorological Department issued a Glof alert for Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to a fresh westerly wave expected during the coming week.
  • Over 7.1 million people in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are vulnerable to Glofs, according to the Ministry of Climate Change.
  • Daytime temperatures are running above normal in glaciated valleys, and water levels in rivers are likely to remain high due to glacier melt.
  • Climate change is causing glaciers to melt at an alarming rate, posing risks to the region's unique cultural heritage and archaeological record.
  • Gilgit-Baltistan lawmakers have asked the federal government to establish a special green fund to protect fast-melting glaciers, and the Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister has announced the establishment of a Glaciers Protection Authority.
  • Rapid glacier melting is causing widespread damage in Gilgit-Baltistan, including floods and mudslides that damaged infrastructure and homes.
  • The National Disaster Management Authority issued a Glof alert for the Hoper and Hisper valleys in Nagar district.

Perspectives

Gilgit-Baltistan Lawmakers

The Gilgit-Baltistan assembly unanimously passed a resolution urging the federal government to establish a special green fund to protect the region's glaciers and fragile ecosystem. Lawmakers also demanded compensation, water rights, and water royalty through development packages, and called for a probe into climate funds, with some alleging corruption. Deputy Speaker Malik Kifayatur Rehman claimed that carbon emissions from neighbouring countries such as India and China are contributing to rapid glacier melting, and stressed the need for legislation to protect water rights.

Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister

Chief Minister Advocate Amjad Hussain announced the establishment of a Glaciers Protection Authority, saying a specialised committee would draft its framework. He emphasised that forestry is important to mitigate climate change impacts and protect glaciers. The move is aimed at addressing climate challenges and attracting support from international organisations.

Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority

The authority said emergency plans and 174 early warning systems are in place. Assistant Director General Imtiaz Ahmed said relief operations were intensified in areas affected by cloudburst-induced floods, with food supplies, tents, and other essential items being distributed. He added that a damaged main road had been reopened and damage assessment was underway.

Local Residents

Residents in affected areas appealed for urgent humanitarian assistance, including food, shelter, medical aid, and essential supplies for those who lost their homes and livelihoods.

Conclusion

The convergence of a Glof alert, ongoing heatwave conditions, and government responses highlights the escalating climate-related challenges facing Gilgit-Baltistan. With rapid glacier melt showing no sign of abating, the region faces both immediate threats to communities and long-term concerns about its environmental and cultural heritage. The establishment of the Glaciers Protection Authority signals a step toward institutional responses, though lawmakers continue to press for federal support and compensation.