A simmering land and boundary dispute between communities in Gilgit-Baltistan's (G-B) Ghizer and Diamer districts has resurfaced, coinciding with devastating floods that have already battered both regions.
Government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq said on Tuesday that the administration is making "serious and effective efforts" to resolve the Singal Nallah boundary issue peacefully.
He stressed that the Ghizer administration and police are handling the matter with professionalism and impartiality.
"The writ of the state will not be compromised under any circumstances," he warned, while appealing to residents to remember their shared cultural, linguistic and social bonds. He described Gilgit-Baltistan as "a bouquet of diverse flowers".
The situation grew tense on Monday when dozens of armed men were spotted in the disputed area, just a day after floods wreaked havoc across G-B. Ghizer and Diamer were reported to be among the worst-hit districts. Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan convened a high-level meeting to address the matter, while local peace committees and other stakeholders have also been engaged to de-escalate tensions.
To prevent violence, G-B Scouts have been deployed on both sides of the disputed boundary, with police and other security agencies providing additional support.
"In a time when natural disasters have caused immense suffering, our duty is to share each other's pain and support flood victims," Faraq added. "Boundary disputes can be resolved through jirgas and negotiations at a later stage. Right now, the focus must remain on rehabilitation and solidarity."
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