Gilgit-Baltistan plans to establish a Glacier Protection Authority to safeguard glaciers, improve climate resilience, and strengthen disaster preparedness across the region.
The Gilgit-Baltistan government is considering the creation of a dedicated Glacier Protection Authority to safeguard the region’s nearly 700 glaciers and strengthen efforts to combat the growing effects of climate change. The proposed authority is expected to improve glacier conservation, disaster preparedness, and climate resilience across the mountainous region.
The proposal was discussed during a meeting between Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Hussain Azar and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Chairman Lt. Gen. Inam Haider Malik at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat. The meeting focused on preparing for natural disasters such as glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), cloudbursts, and flash floods before the peak monsoon season.
The chief minister stressed that Gilgit-Baltistan remains one of the most climate-sensitive regions in Pakistan and requires stronger institutional capacity to respond to environmental challenges. He said scientific research and long-term planning are essential to reduce the risks posed by climate change and protect local communities.
To build local expertise, Amjad Hussain Azar proposed introducing specialised academic programmes on glaciers, climate science, and disaster risk management at universities across Gilgit-Baltistan. He instructed the relevant authorities to coordinate with university vice chancellors and begin work on launching dedicated faculties and research initiatives focused on glaciology and environmental protection.
The chief minister also directed disaster management officials to ensure that early warning systems remain fully operational in vulnerable areas throughout the monsoon season. He said reliable warning systems are critical for protecting lives and reducing the impact of natural disasters.
Expressing concern over the delayed cleaning of flood channels in previous years, Azar instructed the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority to develop a province-wide policy for the timely desilting and maintenance of drainage channels. The initiative aims to minimise flood damage and improve emergency preparedness before heavy rainfall begins.
The meeting also highlighted concerns about delays in reopening highways after disasters. The chief minister directed the National Highway Authority (NHA) to strengthen its emergency response mechanism and maintain 24-hour operational readiness during the flood season to ensure uninterrupted road connectivity.
In addition, Azar instructed the provincial home secretary to allocate land in Skardu for the construction of an NDMA warehouse. The planned facility will improve emergency logistics, speed up relief operations, and enhance disaster response capabilities across the Baltistan region.
The proposed Glacier Protection Authority is expected to play a key role in preserving Gilgit-Baltistan’s glaciers while improving climate resilience and disaster management for the future.
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