A sudden flash flood, caused by melting glaciers, hit the Burundubar stream near Attabad Lake on Wednesday, blocking access to the Luxus Hotel and leaving dozens of tourists stranded.
According to Rescue 1122, more than 160 people including both local and international tourists were safely evacuated by boat after floodwater reached the hotel grounds.
The situation created panic among the visitors, as all land routes to and from the hotel were cut off. The flood also damaged nearby trees and land, adding to the chaos.
In another part of Gilgit-Baltistan, high temperatures led to flooding in Barga Nallah, Skardu. Water entered homes and fields, causing serious damage to property and crops. Residents in the area are struggling to cope with the destruction.
Officials warn that such disasters are becoming more common due to rising heat levels. The Gilgit-Baltistan Environmental Protection Agency (GBEPA) confirmed that the number of glacier-related incidents has gone up in recent years. They say this is a clear sign of the growing impact of climate change in the region.
Experts are calling for better planning, early warning systems, and stronger action to protect people and nature from the effects of melting glaciers. The recent events have raised serious concerns about the safety of communities and tourists in mountainous areas during the summer months.
As temperatures continue to rise, authorities fear more such incidents may occur, making it important to act quickly and responsibly.
