Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Gilgit Baltistan (GB) on Monday in the wake of catastrophic flash floods and torrential rains that have left widespread destruction and loss of life in the region. During the day-long trip, he announced a Rs4 billion package for infrastructure restoration and distributed compensation cheques to the families of victims.
Addressing a cheque distribution ceremony, the prime minister handed over Rs1 million each to the families of those who lost their lives in the disaster. “I came here to express solidarity and to share in your grief,” he told victims, while offering prayers for the deceased and injured.
Warning System and Accountability Demanded
PM Shehbaz stressed the urgent need for an advanced early warning system, lamenting that no significant progress had been made over the past seven years. “Despite repeated disasters, we are still unprepared,” he said. He criticised the lack of development even during the last year and directed concerned ministries to explain the delay.
He also ordered a comprehensive damage assessment to evaluate the losses and ensure appropriate compensation and restoration. The Minister for Communications was instructed to begin immediate work on rebuilding critical infrastructure.
Read More: Trump Backs Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle Campaign Amid Backlash
Climate Change and Pakistan’s Disproportionate Burden
Shehbaz Sharif underscored that Pakistan remains among the most climate-vulnerable nations, despite contributing nearly zero to global emissions. “Once again, the lives of our citizens are upended because of a climate crisis we did not cause,” he remarked.
He recalled the devastation of the 2022 floods and directed the Ministry of Climate Change to intensify its efforts in securing international funding for disaster resilience. “The world must understand that we are bearing the brunt of a crisis we had no role in creating,” he added.
Stranded Tourists, Washed Away Vehicles
The floods, triggered by cloudbursts in areas like Babusar Valley, swept away vehicles and left dozens stranded. At least six people were killed, and rescue teams, including the Pakistan Army, were deployed to evacuate trapped tourists. A 14-day search operation has now ended with no trace of several missing persons.
Separately, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued another warning of heavy rains and potential cloudbursts across GB and Azad Jammu and Kashmir between August 5 and 7. July 2025 saw 23% higher-than-average rainfall nationwide, with GB experiencing 52% more rainfall than usual.
Development Promises Amid Tragedy
The prime minister also announced that a 100-megawatt solar power project would be completed in GB this year. A Daanish School will be inaugurated during his next visit, with another planned for Skardu. “We will not rest until every displaced person is resettled and every road is restored,” he pledged.
His visit concluded with a high-level meeting where the premier reviewed relief operations, ongoing development projects, and law and order in the region. PM Shehbaz promised to return before the end of the month to ensure implementation of directives and personally monitor progress.