Gilgit-Baltistan Seeks Rs7 Billion in Emergency Relief as Floods Wreak Havoc
Gilgit, Pakistan – July 28, 2025:
As devastating floods continue to sweep through Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), the region’s Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan has made an urgent plea to the federal government for Rs7 billion in emergency aid to deal with the crisis. The catastrophic damage caused by climate-induced disasters has already crossed Rs20 billion, leaving the GB government overwhelmed and under-resourced. Gilgit-Baltistan Seeks
Speaking at a press conference in Gilgit alongside Home Minister Shams Lone and other key officials, CM Khan highlighted the dire situation facing the mountainous region. “We are witnessing a flood almost every day,” he stated. “The scale of damage is far beyond our capacity to respond.”
Seven Districts Severely Affected
According to the CM, seven districts have been badly impacted by the ongoing floods, with Diamer suffering the worst devastation. In total, at least 10 people have lost their lives, four have been injured, and hundreds of families have been displaced. The floods have completely destroyed 300 houses and partially damaged another 200. Roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure such as water supply systems and electricity lines have also been washed away.
The chief minister painted a grim picture of the unfolding humanitarian crisis, where families are being forced to flee their homes and live without basic necessities. “Our own Rs1 billion emergency fund has been fully utilized,” Khan said, adding that the government still faces Rs3 billion in liabilities from past disaster responses.
Federal Government Urged to Act Swiftly
CM Khan urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to release at least Rs7 billion immediately to begin urgent repair and rehabilitation work. This includes rebuilding roads, restoring electricity and clean drinking water, and providing shelter to displaced families. He also invited the prime minister to visit the flood-affected areas personally to witness the extent of the devastation.
In a pointed remark, Khan referenced the 2022 federal flood aid of Rs3 billion, which he claimed was poorly utilized by the previous GB administration. Only one successful project—a model village in Ghizer’s Bubor area—was completed under that program. He stressed that the scale of damage in 2025 is significantly larger, making external support not only helpful but necessary for survival. Gilgit-Baltistan Seeks
Climate Crisis Deepens in Northern Pakistan
Gilgit-Baltistan, known for its rugged beauty and tourist destinations like Fairy Meadows and Shigar, is now reeling under the weight of back-to-back natural disasters. Flash floods, landslides, and glacial lake outbursts have become more frequent due to shifting weather patterns linked to climate change. Gilgit-Baltistan Seeks
One of the worst recent incidents occurred in Kondus village, where a landslide wiped out over 50 homes. Residents are now in desperate need of food, shelter, and clean water, with little assistance available at the local level. Relief agencies and provincial resources are stretched thin, as new emergencies continue to emerge daily. Gilgit-Baltistan Seeks
The Karakoram Highway, a key transport artery connecting the region with the rest of Pakistan, was temporarily closed due to landslides but has since been reopened near Chilas. Despite this, accessibility to remote areas remains a major challenge for rescue and aid operations. Gilgit-Baltistan Seeks
Appeals to International Community
Recognizing the limitations of local and national support, the GB government has also sent formal appeals to international organizations and humanitarian agencies, seeking assistance in managing the crisis. “We cannot tackle this alone,” Khan admitted. “The people of Gilgit-Baltistan need the world’s support.” Gilgit-Baltistan Seeks
As climate change accelerates, regions like GB—already vulnerable due to their geography—are now facing unprecedented risks. The call for Rs7 billion in aid is not just about rebuilding infrastructure, but about safeguarding lives and livelihoods in one of Pakistan’s most fragile and strategic regions
