Flash Floods Devastate PoGB: Villages Left in Ruins; Locals Desperate for Help

Severe flash floods in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan have caused widespread destruction in Chunda, Kharbu, and Tandal, as locals grapple with the aftermath. The disaster, driven by climate change, has left homes, roads, fisheries, and farms in ruins, cutting off access to help and vital services.

Flash floods have devastated areas around Chunda, Kharbu, and Tandal in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan (PoGB), destroying villages and homes. The floods, driven by climate change, have left locals struggling without employment or shelter, reported Skardu TV.

Locals reported significant destruction to fisheries, farms, and forests, their primary sources of income. The only road connecting the area to the rest of PoGB was also severely damaged, blocking aid from reaching affected citizens. The region had experienced a similar catastrophe four years ago, according to Skardu TV.

Saiyid Baltistani, a local resident, expressed frustration over the lack of preventive measures from the local administration. He noted that while there was no loss of life, the economic impact was catastrophic. Villagers now face hardships, including dangerous conditions for children heading to school and broken power lines causing blackouts. Locals criticized the government for neglecting the region's needs despite exploiting its resources.

(With inputs from agencies.)