At least six killed in Gilgit-Baltistan landslide

Blocked tributary may inundate surrounding areas and form artificial lakes

GILGIT:

At least six people were killed on Thursday after a landslide struck a remote village in the foothills of Nanga Parbat in Diamer valley of Gilgit-Baltistan.

The village is on a three hours trek from the main Karakoram Highway in Buner valley, said Muhammad Qasim, a local journalist. “Its located just close to the mighty Nanga Parbat,” he told The Express Tribune over the phone.

According to locals, it was still unknown if lightning caused the landslide that buried homes and cut off a tributary which may form artificial lakes.
 

Speaking to journalists in Chilas – headquarter of Diamer district – deputy commissioner Qasim Ejaz confirmed the incident and said the six people were buried under the debris and rescue operation is underway. He added the landslide blocked the tributary which might form lakes and inundate homes in the surrounding areas.

Following the incidents, local volunteers launched a rescue operation on self-help basis. However, they were soon assisted by the administration, supplying them food and other items through an army helicopter.