IN the remote region of Gilgit-Baltistan, nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Karakoram Range, lies a tale of isolation and hardship exacerbated by the unfor- giving forces of nature and the constraints of air travel. The Karakoram Highway, a lifeline connecting this breath-taking terrain to the heart of Pakistan, becomes a treacherous path during the rainy seasons, marred by landslides that block passage and claim lives.

The people of Gilgit-Baltistan find themselves at the mercy of these natural calamities as their only route to the outside world gets cut off by cascading debris. The closure of the Karakoram Highway spells disaster, hindering trade, access to essential services, and, most importantly, the convenience and safety of the local people.

With hardly a couple of flights currently operating between Islamabad and Gilgit, and ticket prices soaring to an eye-watering Rs30,000 per passenger, the journey that should take a mere 45 minutes becomes an ordeal, and the option remains unavailable to many.

The situation is dire, and urgent action is imperative. The government must hear the cries of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and address these pressing issues. Infrastructure improvements along the Karakoram Highway are not just a matter of convenience, but a question of survival, ensuring that the region remains connected and accessible throughout the year.

Moreover, steps must be taken to make air travel a viable option for the locals. Increasing the frequency of flights and lowering fares are essential measures that should not be delayed. In the shadow of the towering peaks of the Karakoram, let us ensure that the people of Gilgit- Baltistan are not left stranded, caught between landslides and sky-high fares.

Ehtisham Ali
Gilgit-Baltistan

Published in Dawn, May 4th, 2024