A glacier burst in the Hispar Biafo Glacier region has triggered a high alert in Gilgit-Baltistan, with rising river levels, road flooding, erosion and landslides reported in affected areas.
The district administration has issued emergency warnings for riverside settlements and travelers on the Karakoram Highway, while rescue agencies, police and control rooms have been placed on high alert.
According to the district administration, the Hispar Biafo Glacier burst caused water levels in the river to rise dangerously. Hispar Valley Road was also flooded, creating difficulties for residents and travelers.
Authorities have issued immediate alerts for several settlements and warned people living near rivers and low-lying areas to remain cautious.
Residents told to move to safer places if needed
The administration has instructed residents of Jaglot, Rahimabad, Nomal, Jotal, Jaglot Colony, Chilmash, KIU Khari and other low-lying areas to move to safer locations if necessary.
People traveling on the Karakoram Highway have also been advised to take precautions. The public has been urged to follow official instructions and avoid relying on rumors.
Following the glacier burst, the administration mobilized emergency response teams. Control rooms, police and rescue agencies have been placed on high alert to respond to any worsening situation.
Officials said the situation is being monitored closely due to the risk of further river erosion, flooding and landslides.
NDMA issues alert over Hispar situation
River erosion and landslides are continuing in Hispar, the last village of Nagar district, due to glacier melting. The National Disaster Management Authority has also issued an alert, according to the district administration.
Authorities said around 400 feet of Hispar Road has been washed away because of glacier melting.
Despite the road damage, the Nagar administration has decided to hold polling at Hispar polling station at all costs. Election material will be moved on foot across the affected portion of the damaged road.
Special arrangements have been made for 786 voters of Hispar polling station. Security personnel have also been deployed for the movement of election material and polling staff.
The district administration said alternative arrangements have been made for vehicles on both sides of the closed road. These arrangements are aimed at ensuring that election material, polling staff and voters can move despite the road being cut off.
Officials said polling-related activities will continue under special security and logistical arrangements.
Glacial lake burst linked to rising temperatures
Officials said the effects of rising temperatures are beginning to appear in Gilgit-Baltistan.
A glacial lake has burst in the Hesper-Hopper area of the region, according to Meteorological Department Director General Dr Afzal. He said the glacial lake burst occurred about 13 kilometers from the Karimabad area.
Dr Afzal said the local road was damaged due to the bursting of the glacial lake. He added that the Meteorological Department is in constant contact with the Disaster Management Authority of Gilgit-Baltistan.
According to the Met DG, water levels in local rivers and canals are decreasing after the glacial lake burst.
Authorities have appealed to residents to remain alert and follow instructions issued by the district administration, rescue officials and disaster management authorities.
Officials said emergency teams are monitoring the situation in Hispar, Nagar, Gilgit and surrounding settlements as floodwater, landslides and road damage continue to pose risks.
