Flash Floods in Chilas Sweep Away Tourist Vehicles; 5 Dead, Dozens Missing
CHILAS – Torrential rains triggered devastating flash floods in Chilas, Gilgit-Baltistan, sweeping away over 15 tourist vehicles and leaving several individuals missing. Rescue teams have so far recovered five bodies and successfully rescued four people, while a large-scale search operation continues.
According to Faizullah Faraq, spokesperson for the Gilgit-Baltistan government, efforts to locate the remaining missing tourists are ongoing. He confirmed that nightfall had earlier disrupted the pace of rescue operations.
More than 200 stranded tourists have been rescued with the help of residents and authorities. The community of Thak Babusar stepped in to shelter over 100 people in their homes, while all hotels and guest houses in the area have been opened free of charge for affected tourists.
Authorities have strongly advised travelers to avoid non-essential movement in the region. In the Diamer district, about 20 points along the Babusar Road and Silk Route have become inaccessible, with nearly 8 kilometers of road infrastructure badly damaged.
To assist those impacted, the Gilgit-Baltistan government has begun distributing ration packs and tents in the flood-hit areas.
Meanwhile, cloudbursts, landslides, and flash floods have led to multiple blockages on the Karakoram Highway. Following directives from the Chairman of the National Highway Authority (NHA), emergency teams have been deployed to restore access and repair damaged routes.
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