Intermittent weather events, combining rain and snow, have significantly impacted Gilgit-Baltistan. These conditions triggered landslides, obstructing critical routes like the Karakoram Highway and Baltistan Road at several points.
Many travellers bound for or departing from Gilgit-Baltistan find themselves stranded as roads are closed. The drop in temperatures below freezing and a lack of electricity exacerbate their situation.
The Karakoram Highway faced closures at various segments due to landslides, notably at Achar Nallah in Kohistan and Thore, following a rockfall caused by rainfall.
A report highlights the plight of numerous vehicles caught at Achar Nallah on the Karakoram Highway, affecting countless passengers. Additionally, Baltistan Road faced blockages due to heavy snow in the Roundu sector of Skardu, leaving many passengers in limbo.
Further disruptions occurred on the Ghizer-Shandur Road in Bargho, isolating link and inter-district roads. Snowfall rendered roads slippery, complicating travel as temperatures plunged to minus six in some areas.
Significant snow accumulation, ranging from three to six inches, was recorded across various districts. An incident on Baltistan Road involved a car hit by a rockfall, resulting in minor injuries to four passengers but damaging the vehicle.
Flight operations between Islamabad, Skardu, and Gilgit were suspended on Monday. Disruptions in electricity, mobile, and internet services were reported across the region.
Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Haji Gulbar Khan called for immediate action from the GB Disaster Management Authority and other officials to manage the crisis effectively. He emphasized the need for readiness in road recovery and support for affected individuals.
He further advised against non-essential travel due to the anticipated weather conditions.
Following dry weather, Gilgit-Baltistan began experiencing snow and rain, with a weather alert for heavy precipitation expected from February 19 to 27.
