Hunza River Flooding Cuts Pakistan-China Land Link

Rapid glacier melting and recent heavy rains have triggered Hunza River flooding, severely damaging the Karakoram Highway at Mor Khun and Gircha. The destruction has disrupted a critical economic artery, as the Hunza River flooding cuts Pakistan-China land link, halting both trade and travel between the two countries.

According to Gilgit-Baltistan government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq, intense river erosion at Mor Khun swept away a section of the historic Silk Route, which forms part of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). All vehicular movement along the route has been suspended. Emergency response teams and heavy machinery have been deployed to carry out urgent restoration work, but officials warn repairs may take several days due to strong water currents and unstable terrain.

The highway is not only vital for bilateral trade but also serves as a lifeline for remote communities along the Pakistan-China border. Locals are facing shortages of essential supplies as traffic remains blocked.

In a separate incident, Skardu’s Zhooq Kachura area witnessed tragedy when a tourist boat capsized amid powerful currents. The vessel was carrying three tourists from Karachi. Rescue teams managed to save one person alive, recovered the body of a woman, while the search continues for the third passenger.

Authorities had already imposed a ban on boating in rivers and lakes under Section 144 due to the hazardous water conditions, yet violations persist. Law enforcement agencies are now taking legal action against those operating or facilitating such unsafe activities.

Meanwhile, a cloudburst-triggered flash flood has blocked the Gilgit–Chitral road, adding to the transportation crisis in Gilgit-Baltistan. Road crews are working to clear debris and restore connectivity as quickly as possible.

Officials urge travelers to avoid non-essential journeys and adhere strictly to safety advisories while restoration and rescue operations continue in the flood-affected areas.