A massive landslide struck near Hassa, Balakot, in Mansehra district, when a large portion of a mountain broke away and crashed onto the road, spreading panic among local residents on Monday.The heavy landslide completely blocked the road, halting traffic in the area.National Highway Authority (NHA) machinery promptly arrived at the site, and efforts to restore the route are underway.

In the meantime, all traffic has been diverted to alternate routes. The incident occurred a day after the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecast thundershowers and landslide threats in northern and northeastern regions, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galiyat, and Azad Kashmir. 

Meteorological officials have also warned of heightened glacier lake outburst flood (GLOF) and flash flood risks due to unusually high temperatures recorded in the Arkari, Bad Swat, Darkut, Hispar Hopper, Gandus, and Gulkin valleys. Experts fear that rapid glacier melting could trigger sudden floods in vulnerable areas. Communities living near glacier lakes have been urged to remain alert and adopt precautionary measures. 

It is worth mentioning that only last month, on August 14, landslides and floods hit Babusar Top in Gilgit-Baltistan, blocking the main road at two points. A vehicle was struck by a landslide, injuring a child. Several houses and farmlands were damaged as floods swept through the region. Authorities stopped tourists and passengers at safe points while Diamer police and local administration launched emergency operations.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)