A tragic mudslide in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Danyor town early Monday killed seven volunteers who were working to repair a drainage channel damaged by recent flash floods. The disaster, which also left three others injured, underscores the ongoing struggle in northern Pakistan following devastating floods and landslides triggered by a glacial lake outburst.
The mudslide occurred at dawn while the volunteers were working on the drainage repair efforts after a flash flood from a glacial lake outburst wreaked havoc on the Karakoram Highway, an essential trade route connecting Pakistan and China. Faizullah Faraq, a spokesperson for the regional government, confirmed the recovery of the bodies and stated that the injured were immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment.
This mudslide tragedy follows a catastrophic event on Sunday when a glacial lake outburst caused flash flooding that not only damaged the Karakoram Highway but also swelled the Hunza river, severely affecting crops and homes in the region. In response to the damage, engineers and workers, supported by heavy machinery, were deployed to begin repair work on the highway.
Several landslides triggered by the flash floods left homes in Danyor and surrounding areas damaged, prompting local authorities to evacuate residents and provide essential supplies to the displaced. Hassan Ali, the local police chief, emphasized the efforts of first responders who managed to evacuate the affected population to safer areas.
Chief Minister Gulbar Khan of Gilgit-Baltistan praised the seven volunteers who lost their lives, calling them “heroes” for their selfless sacrifice in the face of adversity.
The region, known for its picturesque glaciers that provide 75% of Pakistan’s water supply, is increasingly vulnerable to climate-induced disasters. Last month, flash floods led to the tragic loss of 18 tourists’ lives when their vehicles were swept away. Experts have warned that rising temperatures are accelerating glacier melt, increasing the frequency and intensity of glacial lake outburst floods.
A recent study by World Weather Attribution indicated that rainfall from June 24 to July 23 was 10% to 15% heavier than expected due to global warming, exacerbating the country’s flood risks. Despite contributing less than 1% to global greenhouse gas emissions, Pakistan remains one of the countries most affected by extreme weather events.
In 2022, Pakistan suffered from its worst monsoon season on record, which killed over 1,700 people and caused extensive damage, totaling an estimated $40 billion. Since June 26, this year’s floods have killed more than 300 people nationwide.
