Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Gilgit-Baltistan on Monday to personally assess the destruction caused by recent torrential rains, flash floods, and cloudbursts across the region.
During a high-level briefing, Governor Syed Mehdi Shah updated the premier on the scale of devastation, which includes landslides, washed-out roads, and widespread displacement.
Expressing deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives and property, Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that Pakistan remains one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change despite contributing little to global emissions.
“The impacts of climate change are growing worse each year. We need to act decisively,” he said, directing the Ministry of Climate Change to take immediate action.
Declaring the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) a core institution in crisis response, PM Shehbaz noted that federal and regional authorities are working jointly to accelerate relief, rescue, and rehabilitation efforts.
He also reviewed ongoing development projects in Gilgit-Baltistan and confirmed that the Danish school initiative would soon be launched to uplift the region’s education system.
The prime minister and Governor Shah offered prayers for those who lost their lives in the floods, as the federal government assured full cooperation in rebuilding efforts.
Meanwhile, the Gilgit-Baltistan government has declared a state of emergency in 37 flood-affected areas spanning eight districts, including Skardu, Diamer, Gilgit, and Ghizer.
At least 10 people, most of them tourists, have died in the floods, with several others still missing. Over 500 homes have been destroyed and 22 vehicles swept away, while search and rescue operations continue.
Nationwide, floods triggered by relentless rains since June 26 have claimed 299 lives, including 140 children, according to NDMA. More than 1,600 homes have been damaged, and 428 livestock lost.
In response, NDMA has conducted 223 rescue operations and deployed emergency aid including food, tents, hygiene kits, and medical assistance to flood-hit communities.
A fresh wave of monsoon rains is expected to intensify starting August 4, raising the risk of more flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas.
