Flood Destroys Portion of Karakoram Highway

A large section of the Karakoram Highway (KKH) in Upper Hunza’s Morkhun area was destroyed by river erosion on Friday, cutting off the vital land route between Pakistan and China, the Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) government confirmed.

The incident occurred after a sharp increase in river levels, driven by accelerated glacial melting due to rising regional temperatures. The surge in water flow has triggered localised flooding in multiple parts of G-B, placing infrastructure and communities at risk.

G-B government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq said that the eroded portion of the KKH is now impassable. Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan has directed authorities to begin restoration work without delay, with emergency teams already deployed to the site.

Known as a key trade and travel lifeline, the Karakoram Highway connects Pakistan to China through the Khunjerab Pass. Officials have stressed the urgency of restoring the route to resume cross-border movement.

In a separate development, rescue operations are ongoing in Skardu after a boat capsized in the Zhouq Kachura area, leaving several tourists missing. Authorities believe the accident may have been caused by unusually high water levels in the lake, fed by glacial runoff.

Faraq reiterated that boating activities have been strictly banned in affected areas under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which empowers local authorities to restrict gatherings and certain activities for public safety. He warned that action will be taken against individuals or tour operators violating the ban.

This disaster is part of a growing pattern of climate-related emergencies in Gilgit-Baltistan. Since June, Pakistan has experienced destructive flooding caused by cloudbursts, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and intense monsoon rains — with G-B among the most severely affected regions due to its rugged terrain and climate vulnerability.

With the monsoon season still active and temperatures climbing, officials have cautioned residents and tourists to remain alert, follow safety advisories, and prepare for potential further disruptions.