Overview

Heavy monsoon rains have triggered devastating flash floods across northern Pakistan, particularly in the Babusar Top region and Diamer district of Gilgit-Baltistan. The disaster has left thousands of tourists stranded, with many trapped in their own vehicles along blocked highways and damaged mountain roads.

Current situation: Naran Babusar road closed . Astore road closed

Casualties and Missing Persons

• At least 5 tourists confirmed dead
• 15–30 individuals reported missing after vehicles were swept away by floodwaters
• Rescue teams have recovered multiple bodies and are actively searching for the missing

Infrastructure Damage

• Over 8 kilometers of Babusar Highway destroyed
• Multiple bridges and police check posts washed away
• Optical fiber lines and power infrastructure severely damaged, causing communication blackouts

Rescue Operations

Pakistan Army and Gilgit-Baltistan Scouts have launched extensive rescue missions. Helicopters are airlifting stranded tourists from Babusar and Deosai, while local residents have opened homes and guesthouses to shelter affected travelers.

Travel Advisory

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a strict advisory against travel to mountainous regions including Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Diamer, and Ghanche until the end of August. Landslides, blocked roads, and unstable terrain pose serious risks to life and property.

Could this be climate change?

Experts attribute the floods to a combination of intense cloudbursts, glacial melt, and prolonged heatwaves. Gilgit-Baltistan, home to over 5,000 glaciers, remains one of the most climate-vulnerable regions in South Asia.

Public Safety Recommendations

• Avoid travel to northern tourist destinations until further notice
• Monitor NDMA and PMD alerts via mobile apps and radio
• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or landslide-prone slopes
• Cooperate with rescue teams and local authorities

Conclusion

We at Travel & Culture Services urges all tourists and travellers going to North, to exercise extreme caution and postpone travel plans to northern Pakistan until conditions stabilize. The safety of travelers and local communities must remain the top priority.