Passu and Shigar Villages in Danger Due to Melting Glaciers and Rising Rivers
The Passu and Shigar areas in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan are facing severe threats due to the rapid flow in the Hunza and Shigar rivers caused by a heatwave and melting glaciers. This has led to significant erosion, endangering lives and properties.
Residents are appealing for government intervention as the rivers have already destroyed homes and lands. An elderly woman from Passu village said, “Those areas used to be our orchards and fields, but the water has submerged them. Now, only a small part of our old settlement remains.”
Aman Ullah, another resident, mentioned, “The village Passu has historical significance in the region. I have several memories formed around these river banks, but now it seems that all those memories have been submerged in the river.”
Rehan Shah, a political activist, called upon the government, saying, “Our areas are situated near the Karakoram highway, and this is how we are treated. I have witnessed an entire village disappearing slowly as it faced slow destruction each day.”
Climate experts have warned about the accelerated melting of glaciers, highlighting the urgent need for climate action and disaster preparedness in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Doubts Revealed
Passu and Shigar -: Passu and Shigar are names of villages in a region called Gilgit Baltistan, which is currently controlled by Pakistan.
Melting Glaciers -: Glaciers are large masses of ice found in cold places. When they melt, they turn into water, which can cause rivers to overflow.
Rising Rivers -: Rising rivers mean that the water level in the rivers is getting higher, which can lead to flooding.
Erosion -: Erosion is when soil and rocks are worn away by water, wind, or other natural forces. It can make the land unstable and dangerous.
Climate Experts -: Climate experts are scientists who study the weather and climate. They help us understand how changes in the environment affect our planet.
Climate Action -: Climate action means taking steps to protect the environment and reduce the effects of climate change, like using less plastic or planting trees.
Disaster Preparedness -: Disaster preparedness means being ready for emergencies like floods or earthquakes. It includes having plans and supplies to stay safe.
