PM Shehbaz hails GB shepherds for saving lives from glacial flood in Ghizer

Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday, welcomed three courageous individuals from Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) to the federal capital in recognition of their heroic efforts that helped avert a major disaster after alerting about a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF).

The three men—Wasiyat Khan, Ansar, and Muhammad Khan—were acknowledged for their quick thinking and brave actions that led to the saving of around 300 lives during a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in the Ghizer district.

The prime minister presented each of them with a shield and a financial reward of R 2.5 million as a token of appreciation for their service to the community.

He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the trio on behalf of the government and the people of Pakistan, calling their timely warning an act of national service that prevented a major tragedy.

The prime minister hailed them as true heroes whose bravery would be remembered with honor.

During the interaction, one of the citizens described the challenging circumstances they faced. After witnessing signs of the glacial outburst, the three men covered a long distance on foot under difficult conditions to alert residents of a nearby village.

The warning reached people who were located four hours away, and only after gaining access to a phone were they able to spread the message.

The situation was perilous, but thanks to their determination, they managed to notify the community in time. Eventually, they themselves were airlifted to safety by a Pakistan Army helicopter.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended their sense of duty and underscored the importance of such acts of courage.

He also revealed that the Ministry of Climate Change is actively working on developing an early warning mechanism for the Gilgit-Baltistan region to reduce future risks from similar disasters.

Efforts are underway to establish a coordinated alert system aimed at ensuring timely dissemination of critical information to safeguard lives.

The three men expressed their gratitude for the recognition and hospitality extended to them. As a mark of respect, they were hosted as official guests for a night in Islamabad.

Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar was also present at the occasion.

The prime minister concluded the meeting by announcing his intention to visit Gilgit-Baltistan soon, where he hopes to personally honour the resilience and bravery of its people.