In view of risks of Glacier Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Wednesday put the concerned departments on a high alert, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

In its alert, the NDMA said that because of rising temperatures, windstorms and rains, GLOF was feared in these areas.

It further said that the flow of water was likely to increase in the streams and nullahs in the mountainous areas of KP and GB between today (July 17) and July 23.

“Due to deluge in streams, there were risks of landslides in these areas,” the Authority said, and directed the Provincial Disaster Management Authority to stay in complete touch with the concerned departments.    

“Ensure the availability of machinery to deal with any untoward incident due to inclement weather,” it said, adding, “Rescue personnel should also be deployed in the areas, which are considered unsafe.”

The NDMA not only urged the PDMA to alert the locals about the dangers posed by GLOF, but to also warn the tourists of the possible consequences in the event of travelling to these areas in such a weather.   

Similarly, the Authority directed the departments to carry out drills in case they had to evacuate the people in the case of any untoward incident.  

Reporter: Rozeena Ali