Peshawar/Gilgit, August 23, 2025: Authorities in northern Pakistan are warning of potentially “catastrophic” floods after a massive mudslide blocked the Ghizer River in Gilgit-Baltistan, creating a 7-kilometre (4-mile) lake that is now threatening downstream districts.
According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the mudslide struck on Friday, completely obstructing the river channel and forming a “dam-like structure” that could collapse at any moment.
“The new lake can cause a catastrophic flood,” said Zakir Hussain, Director General of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). He cautioned that four downstream districts — Ghizer, Gilgit, Astore, and Diamer — were at serious risk.
Provincial government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq confirmed that similar mudflows had crashed into the river from multiple mountainsides. A shepherd on higher ground was the first to spot the slide and quickly alerted villagers and authorities, enabling the evacuation of nearly 200 residents from scattered homes near the riverbanks.
Footage shared by the NDMA showed black mud tumbling down a mountainside into the river. While Reuters could not independently verify the video, officials said it had been recorded by local residents.
The newly formed lake has begun discharging water, which has slightly reduced the immediate risk of a sudden outburst. However, Faraq warned that flash floods remain possible until the obstruction is completely cleared. Residents in vulnerable downstream areas have been instructed to remain on high alert and evacuate river-adjacent zones.
The mudslide disaster comes as Pakistan reels from heavy monsoon rains and cloudbursts that have triggered widespread flooding in mountain regions. Since August 15, nearly 400 people have been killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s northern districts alone, according to officials.
Nationwide, seasonal flooding has claimed at least 785 lives since late June, NDMA figures show. The authority has also cautioned of at least two additional monsoon spells expected before September 10.
