Glacier burst in Ghizer: PM asks authorities to activate emergency response teams

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday ordered authorities to activate emergency response teams, oversee the evacuation of residents and deliver immediate relief after a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) caused a sudden surge of water in Ghizer district of Gilgit-Baltistan.

With rising concerns over potential further flooding in the coming days, PM Sharif praised the swift response of rescue teams and local volunteers who helped relocate residents to safer ground before the full impact of the deluge. “The proactive evacuation has saved lives,” the prime minister said in a statement, commending the community’s preparedness.

The prime minister directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and local district authorities to continue ongoing rescue operations in the affected valleys and step up relief efforts ahead of two more expected rain spells.

Pakistan lake formed by mountain mudslide threatens ‘catastrophic’ floods

He emphasised the urgency of relocating vulnerable communities to higher ground before the next phase of flooding. He also directed the authorities to remain on high alert, particularly in downstream areas of the country where further flooding could occur.

The prime minister also called for a national campaign to curb construction around rivers, streams, and natural water pathways - a growing concern as climate change increases the frequency and intensity of flash floods and glacial melts. “The recent rains and floods are a national test, and helping those affected is a collective duty,” Sharif said. He vowed that after rescue operations conclude, full-scale rehabilitation efforts will begin, including the delivery of medical aid and essential supplies to all flood-affected families. He issued special instructions to the NDMA to maintain coordination with all provincial disaster management bodies, especially in view of rising water levels in the Indus and Sutlej rivers near Guddu, Sukkur, and Ghauspur.

The prime minister paid tribute to Wasiyat Khan, a resident of Ghizer, for alerting his village to the impending GLOF at great personal risk. “His early warning allowed residents to evacuate in time, preventing any loss of life.”

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025