Flash floods wreak havoc in Diamer, Karakoram Highway closed

According to local authorities, the floods damaged dozens of houses, uprooted trees, destroyed standing crops and washed away pedestrian and vehicular bridges. Water channels and traditional watermills were also badly affected in several areas.

More than six locations in Thor were hit by flash floods, damaging homes, agricultural land, crops and trees. Floodwaters entered residential areas, while the Thor link road was blocked at several points, disrupting traffic. Electricity supply was also suspended in parts of the area.

The floodwaters swept away 13 dumpers, one excavator, one crushing plant and two water tankers belonging to a private company, causing significant financial losses. In Khanbari, heavy flooding damaged farmland, crops, trees and link roads. In Bonar Das, floodwaters blocked the Karakoram Highway near Gonar Farm Nursery in Chilas, forcing authorities to suspend traffic in both directions.

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The highway closure has left hundreds of passengers, freight vehicles and tourists stranded. Long queues of vehicles have formed on both sides of the highway, with women, children and elderly travellers among those facing difficulties.

Residents of Niat also reported severe damage to link roads after floodwaters washed away several sections. Local communities have urged the authorities to restore electricity, repair damaged roads and provide immediate relief to affected families.

District authorities and emergency response teams have launched rescue and damage assessment operations in the flood-hit areas. Relevant departments are clearing debris, repairing damaged infrastructure and working to reopen blocked roads as quickly as possible. Officials said a detailed assessment of the losses is underway, while restoration work continues in the affected areas to restore normal life and transportation.