GILGIT: The World Environment Day remained largely ignored in Gilgit-Baltistan, as no major event was held across the region this year. However, some national and international non-governmental organisations marked the day in various areas, though with limited public attention.
Environmentalists expressed reservations over the lack of importance given to the day in this ecologically sensitive region, and called for urgent action to reduce disaster risks stemming from environmental degradation and climate change impacts.
An event related to the day was held at Rakaposhi Viewpoint in the Ghulmet area of Nagar district. It was organised by the Mountain Area Development Network (MADN) in collaboration with WWF-Pakistan.
The event was attended by students, community members, representatives from various local support organisations and officials from NGOs. Activities included a cleanliness drive at Rakaposhi Viewpoint, an awareness walk to highlight the importance of the day, and an exhibition of eco-friendly products showcasing sustainable alternatives to plastic.
Eco-friendly bags were distributed among shopkeepers in the local market to encourage a shift away from plastic bags and promote sustainable habits within the community.
Speakers at the event highlighted the significance of the day. Safdar Hussain, a representative from WWF, said that while such local efforts are essential, it is more important to reflect on the broader environmental challenges, particularly in GB, one of Pakistan’s most ecologically fragile regions.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Red Crescent Society (GB branch) organised a cleanliness drive in Gilgit’s Raja Bazaar area. A rally was taken out from the Gilgit Municipal Office, passing through different parts of the city and concluding at the Gilgit Press Club.
Unprecedented weather shifts in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) have raised concerns among residents and climate experts, as the region witnessed a prolonged dry spell from September to February this year.
This was followed by sudden snowfall and rain in March, indicating worsening impacts of climate change on Pakistan’s mountainous north, home to the largest ice mass outside the polar regions. “Traditionally, snowfall in GB begins in late October and lasts until February,” said Khadim Hussain, a director in the environmental protection agency (EPA). “However, this winter, the region remained largely dry, with glaciers receiving little to no fresh snow.”
The sudden arrival of heavy snowfall in the last week of Feb – March has triggered fears of increased glacial melting, avalanches, and potential flash floods. “This is nothing but trouble for us,” a local resident Saeed Ahmed said, referring to the latest snowfall.
Elderly residents recall a time when winters were more predictable. “I remember when the first snowfall would come in late October, and we had steady snow throughout the season,” said 82-year-old Mumtaz Khan, a resident of Gilgit. “Now, the weather plays tricks on us—too dry one moment, then too much snow at once. It is nothing like before.”
