GILGIT(National Times)- The Baltistan Road was blocked by landslides near Shangus in Skardu’s Roundu Valley on Thursday morning, leaving thousands of passengers, including tourists, stranded on both sides.
Local residents have expressed concern over the failure to implement safety measures on the road, which is frequently blocked by landslides and has witnessed numerous fatal accidents.
According to a statement issued by the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA), the road was completely blocked and traffic suspended. The authority said debris continued to slide at the site, while large boulders obstructing the road could not be removed using machinery and required blasting.
The GBDMA said the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) was mobilising a blasting team to clear the debris. It advised tourists and the general public to avoid non-essential travel on the road, which would remain closed to traffic at least until today (Friday). It also warned people against attempting to cross the landslide zone due to the high risk of further sliding.
“The public and travellers are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and contact the police helpline at 15 before setting out to obtain the latest information about road conditions,” the statement said.
The 167-kilometre Juglot-Skardu Road, renamed the Baltistan Road, runs along the Indus River and is considered one of the most dangerous mountain routes in the region. Residents of four districts — Skardu, Kharmang, Shigar and Ghanche — depend on it to access other areas. The reconstructed road was inaugurated in 2021.
Frequent landslides, a lack of roadside safety barriers and warning signs, inadequate safety instructions and limited telecommunications facilities at checkpoints have added to the risks for motorists.
Local residents have repeatedly complained about the failure to introduce adequate safety measures during the road’s reconstruction and alleged that the original project design was not implemented.
Residents said several stretches featured sharp turns and were prone to landslides, making them particularly hazardous.
