A controversy has erupted in Hunza after a foreign tourist and vlogger, George Buckley, alleged in an Instagram video that a hotel was discharging sewage directly into the lake. In the video, Buckley stood near the lake with a companion, claiming that a local informed him about the waste being released. He also showed visuals of visibly murky water, sparking widespread concern on social media.
In response, the hotel management categorically denied the allegations, posting a video explaining that they have been operating beside the lake for six years and would never pollute it. They claimed the discoloration in the water was due to a natural confluence, where mineral-rich water from two streams merges, giving a cloudy appearance to the lake s surface.
However, George Buckley challenged the hotel s defense, noting that they failed to provide an updated environmental report despite multiple requests. He also cited a strong foul smell near the premises, suggesting the presence of actual waste, not just mineral runoff.
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Following the public outcry, the Gilgit-Baltistan Environmental Protection Agency took swift action. Environment Director Khadim Hussain confirmed that a fine of Rs 1.5 million had been imposed on the hotel. Authorities sealed the section of the hotel suspected of releasing sewage into the lake during ongoing pipeline repairs, though no major contamination was reported.
Director Hussain added that a report on the incident would be submitted to the Chief Secretary, and the case would be heard in a magistrate s court. He also revealed that the hotel had previously been penalized in October 2024 for a similar violation.
According to a local journalist, residents had repeatedly protested against the hotel in the past for environmental violations, but action was allegedly avoided due to the hotel’s influence. It was only after the tourist’s video went viral that authorities responded, raising concerns about regulatory enforcement in the region.
