A devastating landslide, caused by relentless monsoon rains, struck a highway in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Diamer district on July 21, killing at least three people and leaving more than 15 others missing.
The disaster swept away over eight vehicles, burying at least 10 under debris, according to Abdul Hameed, Diamer’s district police officer.
Rescue operations resumed at 6:00am on July 22 to locate the missing and assist those affected.
The monsoon season, which began in late June, has brought heavier-than-usual rainfall, causing flash floods that have damaged 50 homes, four bridges, a hotel, and a school in the Diamer area.
Major highways remain blocked, and communication signals have been disrupted, complicating rescue efforts.
Hundreds of tourists, drawn to Gilgit-Baltistan’s scenic valleys and lakes, were safely evacuated with the help of government teams and local villagers who provided shelter and aid.
Pakistan has faced significant loss since the monsoon season started, with 221 deaths reported nationwide, including 104 children and 40 women, according to the National Disaster Management Authority.
Over 500 people have been injured in incidents involving floods, collapsed buildings, and electrocutions.
The agency noted that such heavy rainfall is typically seen later in the season, highlighting the unusual intensity this year.
The monsoon, vital for agriculture, has become increasingly destructive due to urban expansion, poor drainage, and climate-driven extreme weather, with Pakistan still recovering from the catastrophic 2022 floods that killed 1,700 and affected 33 million.