Gilgit-Baltistan - August 11, 2025 A powerful flood has wreaked havoc in the remote village of Dughro, located in the Basho area of Shigar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan. The sudden floodwaters, fueled by glacial melt and heavy rains, have damaged multiple houses, destroyed standing crops, and swept away orchards. Local residents, cut off from immediate government assistance due to the area’s remoteness, have launched rescue and relief operations on a self-help basis. With limited resources, they are working tirelessly to save what they can from the destruction. Experts link such extreme weather events in Gilgit-Baltistan to the accelerating impacts of climate change. Rising global temperatures are causing glaciers in the Karakoram and Himalayas to melt at an alarming rate, leading to an increase in Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and flash flooding during the summer monsoon season. Shigar Valley, known for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage, is now facing severe threats from these unpredictable disasters. The situation highlights the urgent need for climate adaptation strategies, stronger flood defenses, and early warning systems to protect vulnerable mountain communities.