A deadly landslide on the Karakoram Highway, triggered by heavy rain and snow, claimed the lives of two travelers in Gilgit‑Baltistan, while authorities closed the Babusar Pass and rescued stranded tourists.
Landslide Tragedy and Road Disruptions
- Arif Hussain and Kashif Ali were killed when a rockfall struck their vehicle near the Pissan section of the Karakoram Highway.
- Heavy rainfall caused multiple landslides across the Nagar district, prompting police to advise travelers to check the highway status before heading out.
- The Babusar Pass road was temporarily shut due to snowfall at Babusar Top; Diamer police rescued stranded tourists and guided them to safety.
- Despite blockages, the Karakoram Highway remained open, though traffic between Pakistan and China via Khunjerab Pass was disrupted by slippery conditions.
- Snowfall also blocked roads in Astore, Skardu, Ghanche, Shigar, Kharmang, Hunza and Nagar districts, complicating local travel.
Weather Patterns and Infrastructure in the Karakoram
Upper regions of Gilgit‑Baltistan experienced intermittent snowfall while lower areas received continuous rain, creating a mix of hazardous conditions. The Khunjerab Top snowfall heightened the risk along the highway, a critical artery for trade and tourism between Pakistan and China. Local authorities have repeatedly urged the public to use the Police Helpline (15) for real‑time updates, reflecting the region’s vulnerability to rapid weather changes and the importance of maintaining safe transport links.
Implications for Travel and Regional Connectivity
The incident underscores the need for improved monitoring of weather‑related hazards on key routes. With the Karakoram Highway remaining open but still risky, authorities are likely to enhance early warning systems and reinforce road safety measures. The closure of Babusar Pass and disruptions at Khunjerab Pass could affect seasonal tourism and cross‑border trade, prompting a reassessment of infrastructure resilience in the high‑altitude corridor.