NDMA Issues Travel Warning for Gilgit-Baltistan Amid Severe Weather Disruptions
Key Highlights
- NDMA advises the postponement of travel to Gilgit-Baltistan amid severe weather.
- Heavy rains and glacial activity have caused flooding, landslides, and road blockages.
- Shyok River and Astak bridges are damaged, and several roads remain inaccessible.
- Skardu, Kargil, Kharmang, and Shigar areas face major connectivity disruptions.
- Restoration teams reopen some key routes, including Surmo Bridge and Jaglot–Gilgit Road.
- Citizens and tourists are urged to monitor official updates before traveling.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has urged the public, including tourists, to defer any travel to Gilgit-Baltistan after relentless rains triggered flooding and landslides that have severely hampered mobility across the region.
Ongoing Hazards
In a statement released through the National Emergency Operations Centre, the NDMA warned that continuous downpours, compounded by glacial activity, have heightened risks in the mountainous north.
Several critical transport links have been blocked or damaged, stranding travelers and limiting access to multiple valleys.
Authorities highlighted that the Shyok River bridge near Saltoro has been rendered impassable by landslides, while the Astak Bridge on the Jaglot–Skardu route is only allowing one-way passage due to partial structural damage.
Major Road Closures
- Diamer–Ghizer Road
- Shandur Road
- Khalti Road
- Dain Road
- Ishkoman Road
- Shyok River bridge near Saltoro (completely blocked)
- Astak Bridge on Jaglot–Skardu Road (restricted to one-way traffic)
- Access routes to Kargil, Kharmang, and Shigar from Skardu
Progress on Restorations
Despite the widespread damage, restoration teams have been working tirelessly to reopen several important routes. Traffic has resumed on the Surmo Bridge in Ghanche, Bagicha Road in Skardu, the Gulmit–Gojal Road in Hunza, as well as the Jaglot–Gilgit Road via Guro and Chilam Road in Astore. These reopenings have provided some relief to stranded communities, instilling a sense of hope in the face of adversity.
Public Advisory
Reinforcing its cautionary stance, the NDMA has advised travelers to remain updated through official channels before attempting any journey to Gilgit-Baltistan. It’s crucial for everyone to stay informed as conditions remain highly volatile, with the possibility of further landslides and flooding. This will help ensure everyone’s safety and well-being.