Karakoram Highway Severed by River Erosion in Upper Hunza

A critical section of the Karakoram Highway (KKH) in Upper Hunza’s Morkhun area was washed away on Friday due to intense river erosion, effectively cutting off the land route between Pakistan and China, the Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) government confirmed.

The incident followed a sharp surge in river levels caused by accelerated glacial melting, a direct consequence of rising regional temperatures. This sudden increase in water flow has also triggered localized flooding in multiple parts of G-B, threatening both communities and vital infrastructure.

Urgent Restoration Efforts Underway

G-B government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq confirmed that the damaged stretch is currently impassable. Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan has instructed authorities to begin restoration immediately, with emergency crews already on-site.

As the main trade and travel artery linking Pakistan with China through the Khunjerab Pass, the KKH is crucial for economic and cultural exchange. Officials have stressed the importance of rapid repairs to resume cross-border movement as soon as possible.

Related Incident in Skardu

In a separate development, rescue operations are ongoing in Skardu after a boat capsized in the Zhouq Kachura area, leaving several tourists missing. Authorities suspect the accident was caused by unusually high lake water levels due to glacial runoff.

Under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, boating in affected areas has been strictly prohibited. Faraq warned that legal action will be taken against individuals or tour operators violating the ban.

Climate Change and G-B’s Rising Vulnerability

This latest disaster adds to a growing list of climate-related emergencies in Gilgit-Baltistan. Since June, Pakistan has been hit by severe flooding triggered by cloudbursts, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and heavy monsoon rains — with G-B being one of the hardest-hit regions due to its mountainous terrain and fragile ecosystems.

With the monsoon season still active and temperatures continuing to rise, authorities have urged residents and tourists to stay vigilant, heed safety advisories, and prepare for possible further disruptions.

Afsheen Gohar

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