Flash Floods Cause Widespread Destruction in Diamer, Karakoram Highway Closed

ISLAMABAD: Torrential flash floods swept through several valleys in the Diamer district overnight, causing widespread destruction to homes, infrastructure, and agricultural land, according to local authorities.

Police said the floodwaters destroyed numerous houses, trees, crops, link bridges, traditional water mills, and irrigation water channels. Landslides also struck multiple sections of the Karakoram Highway, disrupting traffic.

The highway has remained closed since last night near the Governor Farm Nursery in Chilas after a powerful flood surge hit the area. The closure has resulted in long queues of vehicles on both sides of the highway.

Reports indicate that stranded travelers include children, women, and elderly passengers, many of whom are facing significant hardships. The affected travelers have urged the government to restore traffic on the Karakoram Highway as soon as possible.

Authorities are currently assessing the extent of the damage in the affected areas while relevant departments continue operations to clear roads, restore damaged bridges, and reopen the highway.