Flash floods caused widespread destruction in Niat Valley and Geni areas of Chilas yesterday, damaging crops, houses, shops, and hotels. The disaster has left the affected population appealing to authorities for urgent relief and infrastructure restoration.
The link road connecting Niat Valley to the surrounding region was swept away by the floodwaters and is yet to be restored. Its continued closure has created difficulties for local residents to access to the several areas.
However, Geni was severely affected, with the locals suffering heavy losses due to flooding. Homes, commercial establishments, and agricultural land faced majority of the damage across both regions.
Residents demand government action
Flood-affected families are currently awaiting relief from the government and have called for an immediate relief operation to address their needs. They have specifically demanded restoration of the damaged link roads.
Local residents have urged the Gilgit-Baltistan government, district administration, and other relevant authorities to take swift action. Their demands include:
- Launching immediate relief operations for affected families
- Providing compensation for losses to crops, homes, and businesses
- Beginning rehabilitation work in flood affected areas without delay
However, authorities have not yet issued a formal statement on the timeline for relief operations or road restoration. Local sources indicate that the affected population continues to face difficulties in the aftermath of the flooding, with no confirmation yet on when government assistance will reach the area.
The incident adds to a series of flash flood events reported across Gilgit-Baltistan during the monsoon season, prompting renewed calls for improved disaster management facilities in the region’s flood-prone valleys.
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