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Tragedy in Gilgit-Baltistan
Seven volunteers perished in northern Pakistan while attempting to repair a drainage canal overwhelmed by glacial floodwaters. The incident occurred in Danyor city within the mountainous Gilgit-Baltistan region, where three additional individuals sustained injuries according to local authorities.
Rescue Operations Underway
Emergency teams spent hours retrieving bodies buried under debris and transporting wounded survivors to medical facilities. The mudflow struck unexpectedly during early morning hours, overwhelming the volunteers who were clearing a canal blocked by floodwaters from a glacial lake outburst.
Understanding Glacial Lake Outburst Floods
The disaster originated from a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF), occurring when water dammed by glaciers or moraines breaches its containment. These events are becoming increasingly frequent due to climate change accelerating glacial melt. The floodwaters severely damaged the Karakoram Highway - a vital trade route connecting Pakistan and China - along with residential and government buildings throughout the region.
Regional Vulnerability
Gilgit-Baltistan contains numerous glaciers responsible for 75% of Pakistan's freshwater supply. This marks the second major disaster in the region within a month, following landslides that claimed 18 tourists' lives. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of property damage while hailing the volunteers as "heroes who sacrificed their lives for their community."
Monsoon Season Intensifies
Pakistan is experiencing an exceptionally severe monsoon season, with over 300 fatalities recorded nationwide since June 26 due to torrential rains and flooding. Scientists attribute the intensified monsoon patterns to climate change, noting increased frequency of extreme weather events across South Asia.
