Landslide Strands Thousands on Baltistan Road, Urgent Safety Measures Needed

GILGIT: A landslide near Shangus in Skardu’s Roundu Valley has blocked the Baltistan Road, stranding thousands of passengers, including tourists, on both sides since Thursday morning.

The Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA) has issued warnings against travel on the affected route, which has a history of frequent landslides. Local residents have raised alarms over the lack of safety measures, emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent such incidents in the future.

This disruption not only affects the mobility of residents and tourists but also poses significant challenges for local businesses that rely on the influx of visitors. The ongoing closure of this vital thoroughfare could lead to economic repercussions for the region, particularly as the tourist season approaches its peak.

Authorities are expected to conduct an assessment of the road conditions and implement necessary safety measures to mitigate future risks. Local leaders are calling for urgent government intervention to ensure the safety of travelers and the restoration of access to this critical route.