Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid an urgent visit to Gilgit-Baltistan on Monday to inspect the aftermath of recent floods that have wreaked havoc across the mountainous region.
Upon arrival, he was welcomed by Governor Syed Mehdi Shah, who provided a comprehensive overview of the destruction caused by persistent rainfall, flash floods, and landslides.
Expressing heartfelt condolences to affected families, PM Shehbaz described the situation as a clear warning about the escalating impacts of climate change.
“Pakistan contributes less than 1% to global emissions, yet we face some of the harshest consequences,” he noted, instructing the Ministry of Climate Change to spring into action.
He emphasized the role of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) as a key institution in the relief response and affirmed that the federal government is working hand-in-hand with G-B authorities.
The prime minister also reviewed development initiatives and confirmed that a Danish school would soon be launched in the region to improve access to quality education.
Both PM Shehbaz and the governor offered prayers for flood victims and stressed the urgency of restoring homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
Meanwhile, a state of emergency has been declared in 37 flood-affected areas across eight districts of Gilgit-Baltistan, including Diamer, Gilgit, Skardu, Ghizer, and Nagar.
So far, at least 10 people, mostly tourists, have lost their lives, with several others still missing. The G-B Home Department reported that 509 houses have been destroyed and 22 vehicles swept away by gushing floodwaters.
Nationwide, the crisis is deepening. Since June 26, 299 lives have been lost due to floods and heavy rains, including 140 children, according to the NDMA. Over 1,600 homes have been damaged, and thousands displaced.
The NDMA has carried out 223 rescue missions and dispatched life-saving relief items, including tents, hygiene kits, dewatering pumps, and food packs. Medical teams are working across 71 emergency camps.
Officials warn that another intense monsoon wave is expected to hit vulnerable regions from August 4, increasing the threat of further flash floods and glacial lake outburst events.