Landslide blocks Karakoram Highway at Bisham after heavy rain

The Karakoram Highway was blocked at Bisham in Shangla district on Thursday after a landslide triggered by heavy rain, according to The Nation, leaving passengers and transporters stranded on both sides of the affected section.

Hill debris and rainwater flowed onto the highway at Bisham, forcing the suspension of vehicular traffic. The district administration, relevant departments and Rescue 1122 teams launched an operation to clear the debris and restore traffic, the report said.

Intermittent heavy rain continued in different parts of Shangla, including Alpurai, Bisham and adjoining areas, on Thursday evening. The downpour increased the risk of landslides in the hilly areas and raised water levels in rain-fed streams and drains.

The landslide and flow of rainwater onto the road brought traffic on the Karakoram Highway to a standstill at Bisham. Passengers and transporters were forced to wait until the affected section could be cleared.

Following reports of the highway blockage, District Emergency Officer Rescue 1122 Shangla Engineer Malik Sher Dil Khan reached the site and reviewed the situation. He directed the relevant departments to take immediate measures for clearing the road and dealing with any possible emergency.

The Rescue 1122 official remained at the site and supervised the relief and restoration operation, while the relevant departments continued removing landslide debris from different sections of the highway. The administration also stepped up efforts to clear the road completely and restore normal traffic.

Meanwhile, Rescue 1122 personnel remained engaged in relief activities in Bisham and other areas affected by the heavy rains. Disaster Rescue Teams of Rescue 1122 were placed on high alert to respond promptly to any emergency arising from the adverse weather conditions.

The district administration and Rescue 1122 advised citizens and passengers to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain and exercise particular caution while travelling on hilly roads. They also urged motorists and passengers to avoid stopping at locations vulnerable to landslides and other weather-related hazards. In case of an emergency or need for immediate assistance, citizens can contact the Rescue 1122 helpline at 1122.

The Karakoram Highway is the main road link between Islamabad and Gilgit-Baltistan, and blockages at Bisham often disrupt travel to and from the northern regions. The Nation's report did not mention any casualties from the landslide.