GILGIT: The Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) government has declared a state of emergency in 37 areas following devastating monsoon floods that have claimed at least 10 lives, swept away 22 vehicles, and left over a dozen tourists missing. The disaster has caused an estimated Rs20 billion in damages, triggering urgent relief and rescue operations across the mountainous region.
According to a notification issued by the G-B Home Department on Thursday, the flood-hit areas include 12 localities in Diamer, 9 in Gilgit, 5 in Ghizer, 4 each in Skardu and Shigar, 2 in Ghanche, and 1 each in Nagar and Kharmang.
“On account of heavy rains during Monsoon 2025, several villages in Gilgit, Ghizer, Nagar, Diamer, Skardu, Ghanche, Shigar, and Kharmang have been severely affected by flash floods,” said Home Secretary Syed Ali Asghar in the notification. He added that the calamity had caused widespread destruction — including loss of lives, livestock, homes, infrastructure, and crops.
Under the National Calamities (Prevention and Relief) Act, 1958, the government has invoked emergency powers to fast-track relief efforts.
The worst-hit locations include:
In Gilgit: Parri Bangla, Jutal, Danyor, Sultanabad, Bagrote, Sharote, Shikyote, Skarkoi, and Hasan Colony near KIU
In Diamer: Botogah, Thore Parika, Gushay Darel, Niat Valley, Khinner, and others
In Ghizer: Biarchi, Thoi, Silpi, Khanchay, and Nazbar
In Skardu and Shigar: Burgay, Qaimabad, Arincho, Chutron, and Rgiayul
In Ghanche: Kondus and Haldi (Mashabrum Sub-Division)
In Nagar: Harchi village
In Kharmang: Torghon valley
G-B government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq confirmed the grim toll in a press briefing. “We have tragically lost 10 people, most of whom were tourists visiting the region,” he said. At least 10 to 15 tourists are still missing, while four others have been injured and are receiving medical care.
Faraq said the provincial government has already started rehabilitation using its own resources, with Rs440 million allocated to restore critical water, power, and road infrastructure. Relief efforts include the distribution of tents, blankets, food supplies, and kitchen kits to displaced families.
“The rebuilding of 509 destroyed houses is already underway,” he added, calling it a “massive challenge” for the region. “We urge the federal government to step forward and support us in healing the wounds of the victims.”
