Eight local volunteers were killed in a massive landslide while repairing the flood-damaged Danyor Nullah in Gilgit. Rescue officials confirmed the casualties.
According to eyewitnesses, the volunteers were working to restore a damaged water channel when the landslide struck suddenly. Tonnes of soil and rocks buried several people at the site.
Rescue teams, supported by residents, rushed to the area. Four people were pulled out alive but were in critical condition. Several others sustained injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals. Emergency services in the area remain on high alert.
Authorities believe more people may still be trapped under the debris. Search and rescue operations are ongoing despite difficult conditions caused by unstable terrain.
Earlier in the day, the National Highway Authority (NHA) cleared a road at KM 161 in Jalkhad that had been blocked by a landslide. Traffic flow was restored after hours of work.
NHA teams also temporarily rebuilt the Looshi Bridge, which had been washed away during recent rains and landslides. The repair allowed traffic to resume on the route.
In another incident, the road at Tatta Pani was cleared again after being blocked by a fresh landslide. The same section had been reopened two days earlier but was hit by another slide.
Gilgit-Baltistan has faced repeated landslides in recent weeks due to heavy rainfall. These incidents have damaged infrastructure, blocked roads, and disrupted travel in the mountainous region.
Local authorities have urged residents and travelers to remain cautious, especially in areas prone to landslides. They advise avoiding unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain.
The administration expressed sorrow over the loss of life in Danyor Nullah and praised the volunteers for their service to the community. The government has announced support for the families of those killed and injured.
Rescue officials later confirmed that the Karachi factory blaze had started in the basement, causing extensive damage.
