BY: Aftab Hussain
A sudden flash flood caused by heavy rainfall in Thor Myar, Diamer district, has blocked the Karakoram Highway (KKH), a vital international route connecting Pakistan and China. The highway has been temporarily closed to all types of traffic, causing significant disruptions to trade and travel.
Eyewitnesses reported that the flash flood came suddenly from the Myar Nullah, bringing with it a massive amount of mud, rocks, and water that made the road impassable.
Long queues of vehicles have formed in the area, and passengers are facing severe difficulties. District administration, Frontier Works Organization (FWO), and other relevant authorities have reached the site and are working to clear and restore the road. According to officials, if the weather remains favorable, the road is expected to be reopened to traffic within a few hours. Efforts to Restore Traffic Assistant Commissioner Chilas stated that the administration is making every effort to restore traffic as soon as possible. He urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel and follow government instructions. Demands for Sustainable Road Construction Locals have demanded that roads near streams and rivers be constructed with more durability to prevent such incidents from occurring repeatedly. They emphasized the need for sustainable infrastructure to mitigate the risks associated with flash floods. Impact on Trade and Travel The Karakoram Highway is a crucial trade route between Pakistan and China, and its closure has significant implications for both countries. The blockade affects not only local people but also trade caravans, highlighting the need for prompt restoration of traffic. Context The Karakoram Highway is one of the highest paved roads in the world, passing through the Karakoram mountain range. It connects the Pakistani provinces of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. The highway has strategic and military importance, and its maintenance is crucial for regional connectivity
