Landslide Alert Issued for Northern Pakistan’s Mountainous Regions
The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a landslide alert for the northern mountainous regions of Pakistan, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK). This warning is announced when the area is experiencing torrential rain, which will lead to the risk of landslides, mudflows, and fall of rocks.
Areas at High Risk of Landslides and Mudslides
The NEOC stated that the heavy rainfalls are likely to be in isolated areas such as Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Diamir, Ghanche, and Shigar valleys, and heavy rainfall is likely to be in the region around Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, rawalakot, Haveli, Bagh, and other peripheral areas of AJK. The intense rainfall will also increase the chances of slope failures, mud and rock pieces and mudflows that can especially occur in susceptible areas.
Identified High-Risk Areas in Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK
Specific areas in Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK have been identified as high-risk zones, including Kohistan Lower (RD 180), Kolai Palas (RD 200), Nagar (RD 480), Hunza (RD 500), and several locations in Rondu Valley. These areas, mapped through Joint Survey Risk (JSR) mapping, are most susceptible to landslides due to the geographical and weather conditions.
Precautionary Measures for Residents and Travellers
Residents in high-risk areas should remain alert and take precautions to protect themselves. It’s crucial to be cautious of slope failures, landslides, and ground subsidence, especially after heavy rainfall.
Travel Advisories and Recommendations
It is not beneficial to travel to vulnerable areas, except in cases of necessity. The authorities recommend restrained movements in these regions because the chances of landslides are high. Individuals living in affected regions should develop knowledge about weather warnings and be prepared to take prompt action in the event of any deterioration in circumstances.
Emergency Response and Preparedness
The concerned departments, including local authorities, NDMA, and FWO, are instructed to ensure that emergency staff and equipment are available in regions affected by the disaster. They will be left on standby so that, in the event of any emergency or incident resulting from the landslide threat, they can react immediately.
People living in and visiting the area are advised to stay updated and listen to the official travel guidance issued by the NDMA and NEOC. Safety is a priority, and the authorities are doing what they can to minimise the effects of heavy rains and landslides in the northern areas of Pakistan.
