At least 3 dead, dozens of tourists stranded in Gilgit Baltistan after cloudburst triggers disaster

Gilgit (Web Desk): A devastating cloudburst struck the popular tourist destination of Babusar Top in Gilgit-Baltistan, triggering massive landslides and flash floods that wreaked havoc across the region.

The sudden and intense weather event caused widespread disruption over a 7 to 8-kilometer stretch, severely affecting road networks, halting traffic, and leaving dozens of tourists stranded in the mountainous terrain.

According to the district administration, the flooding in Chilas swept away three individuals who were later found deceased, while one injured person was promptly taken to the hospital for treatment. 
Rescue operations were swiftly launched, and stranded tourists were evacuated and relocated to safer locations.

Deputy Commissioner of Diamer and the Superintendent of Police (SP) visited the affected sites to monitor relief efforts firsthand.

Authorities reported that massive boulders and difficult terrain have rendered forward access nearly impossible, even on foot. Despite these challenges, arrangements were made in Chilas to accommodate stranded tourists temporarily, with local hotels providing emergency lodging.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) stated that the Babusar Top road remains completely closed due to the destruction.

On the Karakoram Highway, 10 to 15 vehicles have become stuck in streams and landslide-prone areas near Lal Pahari and Tatta Pani. In the Thak Nullah area, four people were swept away by floodwaters; two bodies have been recovered, while two others were rescued alive.

The Pakistan Army has joined relief operations and continues the search for those still missing.

Meanwhile, the Neelum Valley also suffered severe damage due to a similar cloudburst. In the town of Madian, a house was buried in a landslide, resulting in the tragic deaths of three children and injuries to their mother.

In Swat, two more children lost their lives after being swept away in a rain-fed stream. District administrations and emergency services are actively engaged in rescue and relief efforts across all affected regions.

Authorities have urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel to the impacted areas to ensure safety and facilitate uninterrupted emergency response.