A devastating cloudburst at the scenic Babusar Top in Gilgit-Baltistan triggered flash floods on Tuesday, claiming the lives of at least five tourists, with several others still missing. The disaster, caused by intense torrential rains, has swept panic through the region, just as peak tourism season was underway.
Flash Floods Wreak Havoc on Tourists
According to initial reports, the sudden cloudburst in Chilas led to destructive flash floods, which swept away more than 15 tourist vehicles. Rescue teams rushed to the scene and so far have:
- Recovered five bodies of deceased tourists
- Rescued four survivors from submerged areas
- Launched search operations for those still missing
Spokesperson for the Gilgit-Baltistan government, Faizullah Faraq, confirmed the loss and ongoing efforts, adding that nightfall earlier hampered rescue operations.
Locals Step In: 200+ Stranded Tourists Rescued
In a display of extraordinary hospitality and resilience:
- Local residents of Thak Babusar opened their homes, sheltering over 100 tourists
- More than 200 stranded travelers were rescued by a combined effort of locals and authorities
- All hotels and guesthouses in the area were opened free of charge for affected individuals
“We’re doing everything possible to protect lives and restore access,” said an NHA spokesperson.
Severe Infrastructure Damage
The cloudburst and resulting flash floods have left a trail of destruction, particularly on vital roads. Authorities report:
- 20 critical points on Babusar Road and Silk Route are impassable
- 8 kilometers of road infrastructure has been severely damaged
- Multiple blockages reported along the Karakoram Highway due to landslides
In response, National Highway Authority (NHA) teams have been mobilized to repair and reopen roads under emergency directives.
Relief Efforts and Safety Advisory
The Gilgit-Baltistan government has launched rapid relief operations, including:
- Distribution of ration packs and tents to flood-hit areas
- Provision of first aid and basic medical assistance to the injured
- Urgent advisory to avoid non-essential travel, especially to northern areas
🔗 Read More: Fresh rain spell begins in Islamabad/Rawalpindi
A Picture-Perfect Destination Now in Crisis
Babusar Top, located at 13,691 feet (4,173 meters) above sea level, is one of Pakistan’s most popular high-altitude tourist spots, attracting thousands of visitors each summer. But the recent disaster has highlighted the fragility of mountain tourism in the face of climate-induced weather patterns.
Travel Alert for Northern Pakistan
Authorities urge extreme caution:
- Avoid traveling to Babusar Top, Naran, Kaghan, and Chilas until further notice
- Monitor local weather reports and travel advisories from Gilgit-Baltistan authorities
- Tourists currently in the region are advised to stay indoors and follow instructions from local rescue teams
