GILGIT-BALTISTAN – The Gilgit-Baltistan government has confirmed that all 250 tourists stranded on Babusar Road have been rescued and shifted to Chilas, while a search continues for missing individuals following deadly flash floods in the region.
GB spokesperson Faizullah Firaq said Silk Road and Babusar Road remain closed to traffic after severe flooding and landslides. Tourists trapped in Deosai National Park were also safely evacuated to secure shelters.
The floods, caused by days of heavy monsoon rains, left five people dead – including four tourists – and 15 others missing in Diamer district. A cloudburst at Babusar Top caused extensive damage, blocking roads and leaving many injured.
Tourists have been warned to postpone trips to GB, as Naran and Kaghan are completely closed, while only light vehicles are allowed on limited sections of the Silk Route. The Karakoram Highway has been shut down at two locations, further stranding travelers.
Meanwhile, the NDMA issued a fresh advisory, forecasting more rain until July 25 with risks of flash floods, landslides, and glacial lake outburst floods in GB, KP, AJK, and Balochistan. Rivers including Chenab, Kabul, and Jhelum may see rising water levels.
Authorities have prepared dewatering pumps and emergency response teams for rapid relief operations. Chief Minister GB Haji Gulbar Khan is set to visit Babusar Road today to review rescue efforts and damage control measures.
Local hotel owners have provided free accommodation for affected tourists, while restoration work is underway to reopen key routes, including the Silk Road up to Bisham.