Flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall caused widespread destruction across several valleys of Diamer overnight, damaging homes, infrastructure and agricultural land while disrupting travel on the Karakoram Highway.
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According to local police, powerful floodwaters swept through multiple areas, destroying several houses, trees, crops, pedestrian bridges, traditional water mills and irrigation channels. Authorities also reported landslides at various locations along the Karakoram Highway, further complicating rescue and restoration efforts.
One of the worst-hit locations was near the Goner Farm Nursery in Chilas, where a flash flood blocked the Karakoram Highway. The closure has remained in place since the previous night, leaving long queues of vehicles stranded on both sides of the road.
Officials said hundreds of travelers have been affected by the highway closure, including women, children and elderly passengers, many of whom have been forced to wait for hours under difficult conditions. Stranded commuters have urged the government and relevant authorities to restore traffic on the vital highway as quickly as possible.
Emergency teams and local administration have launched damage assessment operations in the affected areas while engineering crews are working to clear debris, reopen roads and repair damaged bridges. Authorities are also evaluating losses to homes, farmland and public infrastructure caused by the floods.
The Karakoram Highway serves as a crucial transportation route connecting Gilgit-Baltistan with other parts of Pakistan. Any prolonged disruption affects passenger movement, trade and the delivery of essential goods to remote communities.
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Officials have advised residents living near streams and vulnerable areas to remain alert as unstable weather conditions may increase the risk of further flash floods and landslides. Authorities said restoration work will continue until road links are reopened and essential services are fully restored. The administration has assured affected communities that all available resources are being utilised to speed up relief efforts and minimise disruptions caused by the natural disaster.