GILGIT BALTISTAN — Glacier melting in Gilgit-Baltistan has caused the Hunza River to swell, leading to destructive flash floods near Morkhun. The flooding damaged a key section of the Karakoram Highway, cutting off road access between Pakistan and China.
Authorities have completely closed the Karakoram Highway to all traffic. Repair teams are assessing the damage and working on restoration plans.
Heavy overnight rainfall in nearby areas, including Nizampur, Ziarat Kaka Sahib, and Cherat, made the flooding worse and triggered further flash floods.
️ اہم اطلاع: پاکستان اور چین کے درمیان زمینی رابطہ منقطع ⚠️
— Gilgit Baltistan Tourism. (@GBTourism_) August 8, 2025
بالائی ہنزہ میں دریائے ہنزہ گلگت بلتستان کے شدید کٹاؤ کی وجہ سے شاہراہِ قراقرم (KKH) کا ایک حصہ گرچہ اور مورخون (زرت غار بین) کے مقام پر دریا برد ہو گیا ہے۔
اس کے نتیجے میں سوست اور ہنزہ کے درمیان شاہراہ ہر قسم کی… pic.twitter.com/VctQUGBg6b
Several villages in Gojal have been cut off as main routes remain blocked. Hundreds of vehicles are stranded on both sides of the damaged road. Officials have urged residents and travelers to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary movement in affected areas.
In one rescue operation, emergency teams saved eight people trapped by floodwaters in the Khwar area. Local authorities are continuing relief efforts while keeping a close watch on water levels and weather conditions.
The Karakoram Highway is a vital trade and travel link between Pakistan and China. Its closure has highlighted the vulnerability of mountain infrastructure to extreme weather events.
Experts say climate change and rapid glacier melting are increasing the frequency of such disasters in northern Pakistan.
Officials stress the urgent need to improve disaster preparedness and strengthen infrastructure in the region. The restoration of the Karakoram Highway remains a top priority to reconnect communities and resume cross-border trade.
In other news read more about Beijing Lifts Highest-Level Rainstorm Alert After Floods Kill 44 and Displace Thousands
