Shehbaz Sharif Unveils Rs4 Billion Flood Relief for Gilgit-Baltistan

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a Rs4 billion relief package to rebuild infrastructure and support flood-affected families in Gilgit-Baltistan, emphasizing swift action to address the region’s climate-driven crisis.

On August 4, 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Gilgit-Baltistan to address the devastating impact of recent monsoon rains and flash floods, announcing a Rs4 billion (approximately $14 million) relief package for infrastructure restoration and victim support. The funds aim to repair damaged roads, bridges, and homes while providing financial assistance to affected families. During a ceremony in Gilgit, Sharif distributed cheques of Rs1 million to families of those who lost their lives and Rs500,000 to the injured, underscoring the federal government’s commitment to the region’s recovery.

The floods, triggered by cloudbursts and heavy rainfall, have caused significant destruction across eight districts, including Diamer, Gilgit, and Ghizer, with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) reporting at least 10 fatalities and over 500 homes destroyed in Gilgit-Baltistan alone. Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change, noting that despite minimal global emissions, the country faces severe consequences. He directed the Ministry of Communications to prioritize infrastructure repairs and urged the Ministry of Climate Change to enhance disaster preparedness, citing the need for an advanced early warning system.

In addition to immediate relief, Sharif outlined long-term initiatives, including a 100-megawatt solar power project to address energy shortages and the establishment of Danish Schools to improve education for underprivileged children. “Investing in education is investing in the future,” he stated, as reported by Radio Pakistan. He also committed to personally overseeing these projects, promising to return by August’s end to monitor progress. Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan praised Sharif’s engagement, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure for tourism and economic recovery.

The federal government’s response includes coordination with local authorities, with the NDMA dispatching thousands of relief items like tents and food packs. Sharif also formed a committee, including Federal Minister for Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan Affairs Engineer Amir Muqam, to address regional concerns. With monsoon risks persisting, as warned by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the government’s focus remains on rapid response and resilience-building to mitigate future climate disasters.