Opinion
Gilgit-Baltistan’s Hidden Challenges and the Path Forward
Fresh air and water have become a luxury in the urban towns of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). GB, the snow-covered region of Pakistan, is the subject of much romanticism for its picturesque beauty. In the thick of the glorification, the looming challenges of GB do not get the attention they deserve. There are a plethora of challenges on the list to be penned. Yet haphazard urbanization, food insecurity, the threat of climate change, and unemployment are assumed to be under discussion.
My father used to tell an anecdote about how, in the 1990s, he and his friends were used to drinking water from open canals in Gilgit city. Now, in contrast, the small water channels are full of garbage, and the first thing you do when you look at them is vomit. But why has this happened to our beautiful city of Gilgit? Who is to blame for turning a city of freshness into a dustbin?
The answer is; unplanned and rapid urbanization in Gilgit city. The unplanned urbanization of mountainous region, GB of Pakistan causes a variety of problems. First, the resource burden on urbanized areas such as Gilgit city, Skardu and Aliabad has increased up to tenfold. For example, if Gilgit city has the capacity to quench the thirst of 0.2 million people, it cannot afford to provide drinking water to half a million people. Moreover, when resources are scarce, competition begins, which eventually leads to conflict as people scramble to find them.
Let’s just put the unplanned urbanization led scarcity of resources debate into an academic and theoretical way. Academically, scarcity of resources can lead to conflicts due to a phenomenon known as the “scarcity-conflict hypothesis” proposed by Thomas Homer-Dixon. According to this hypothesis, when resources are scarce, competition for access to these resources increases, which can lead to violent conflicts due to perceived threats to one’s access to these resources. This can be due to a variety of factors, including unequal access and distribution of resources, population growth, and climate change. As resources become increasingly scarce, the potential for conflict increases, as those with access to resources may perceive those without access to resources as a threat. This can lead to violence, as those without access to resources attempt to gain access and those with access to resources attempt to protect their access. Therefore, competition for resources in a region already notorious for geo-sectarian violence could lead to an escalation of the situation, causing further tensions and potential outbreaks of violence.
Second, major challenge caused by haphazard urbanization is; the urbanized towns of GB are near to turn into ‘Concrete Forests’. Basically, “concrete forest” is a term used to describe an area that has been built up with urban development, such as high-rise buildings and other structures. The term was first used by the American architect and urbanist Robert Moses in the 1950s. He used it to refer to the densely populated, heavily built-up urban areas of New York City.
The negative impacts of concrete forests in urban town of GB are crystal clear. Concrete forests cause a lot of disruption to the local environment, as they require large amounts of land to be cleared for their construction. This leads to the destruction of natural habitats and loss of biodiversity in the area. The presence of a concrete forest also disrupt the natural hydrological cycle, as the concrete structures prevent water from flowing freely and reduce the amount of water available for other uses. For instance, in Gilgit, encroachment for housing has narrowed the water streams of the Jutiyal Nala. As a result, during the monsoon season, floods sweep the nearby houses along the watercourses. Even more appalling is that, according to the Asia Foundation (AFR), only 22 per cent of the GB’s water is considered safe to drink, while the remaining 78 per cent is considered unsafe. Last but not the least, concrete forest costs the arable lands, so it did in GB. When arable land becomes overcrowded with skyscraping buildings, the indigenous capacity to feed becomes compromised.
Gilgit Baltistan is one of the most food-insecure regions in Pakistan. While urbanization and expanding structures have left little ground for farming in Gilgit City, the availability of wheat at reduced costs has struck a twin blow to agriculture in the GB, which is rapidly losing its status as a breadbasket. We did not realized that, but the subsidy has become an addict that costs us dearly today.
Historically, with its abundant water and fertile soil, Kashrote was originally considered one of the best places in the region to farm. However, the haphazard construction spilling over from the burgeoning city of Gilgit has completely overwhelmed it.
In the peripheries of GB, the arable land is filled with cherry trees to pocket in the seasonal money. However, the people of GB lost their comfort zone in food realm when the catastrophic floods in 2022 have wreak havoc in food sector of Pakistan in general and GB in particular. As the floods have flashed the crops in Sindh and Punjab thence wheat has been scarce. Resultantly, the subsidized wheat supply to GB has jeopardized. Thereby, natural calamities and climate change affect the food supply chain of GB in particular.
The effects of climate change are already being felt in the GB. The region is particularly vulnerable due to its high mountainous terrain, which is home to more than 700 glaciers. Impacts include the melting of the region’s glaciers, which has led to rising water levels in rivers and streams, resulting in frequent flooding and landslides. The Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) from Shishper Glacier is an example of rapidly melting glaciers in the region. Melting glaciers and changing weather patterns have also reduced the availability of water for irrigation and drinking. For example, when the Shishper glacier burst in May 2022, Aliabad was left without water. All of this is happening as a result of an increase in the region’s average temperature, which has risen by 0.6°C in the last 50 years. During the summer months, the temperature in Gilgit city reaches a level where outdoor chores and jobs test people’s ability to withstand high temperatures. Nevertheless, people go out for jobs considering the fact that there are scarce jobs and employment opportunities in GB.
Unemployment is another major challenge, and one that people often tend to forget when they see 20 government jobs listed on job boards. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the unemployment rate in GB is 1.5%. In addition, 5000 GB students graduate every year and only 500 get jobs. Those young people with degrees in their hands but no jobs are vulnerable and exposed to radical ideologies, whether from left wing or right wing peers. And, to fill the gulf between degree holders and jobs, the public and private sectors need to work hand in hand to accommodate the educated youth.
Ultimately, the urgent priority is to shed light and generate discourse on the unspoken challenges that could cost the survival, peace, prosperity and growth of future generations of the GB. Through discussion and debate, doable and plausible solutions could be fine-tuned to address the problems. The above challenges require proactive, not reactive, solutions.
First, planned urbanisation is needed as this could solve many problems. It contributes to the reduction of environmental impacts, the improvement of access to resources, the creation of more efficient and equitable infrastructure, and the promotion of economic development. By planning urban growth and development, cities can better manage resources, reduce inequality and create more liveable and sustainable places.
The food security of 1.5 million Gbians depends on subsidised wheat from mainland Pakistan. But in order to become self-sufficient in food, the GB needs to transform its barren land into arable land. Unfortunately, almost 100% of the barren land is locked up in conflicts between neighbouring villagers over ownership claims. So, if the people are sincere about the future of the generations to come, then the conflicts over the barren land should be resolved through talks and negotiations as soon as possible. This is because it is like building a castle on shifting sands to rely on the densely populated mainland of Pakistan for food security.
To help tackle the effects of climate change in the GB, it is important to get the local community involved in tackling climate change. This can be done by educating the public about how climate change affects them and the different steps that can be taken to help reduce the negative effects. Once people are aware of the dangerous effects of climate change, the steps to adapt and mitigate will follow automatically. As such, the provision of climate change information is a prerequisite.
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The Karakoram Highway (KKH), a vital lifeline for trade between Pakistan and China under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), faces critical challenges each winter due to negligent maintenance. Connecting the two nations through the Khunjerab Pass—at over 4,693 meters (15,397 feet) above sea level—this strategic route is central to trade and regional economic integration. The pass connects Gilgit-Baltistan with China’s Xinjiang region and was reopened after closing for almost three years in April 2023. The land border was closed in 2020 after the outbreak of COVID-19. However, when heavy snowfalls hit, KKH becomes treacherous, risking the disruption of trade and the economic ties vital to both countries.
The KKH, a pivotal component of CPEC, facilitates the movement of goods and strengthens economic ties between Pakistan and China. Its year-round functionality is crucial for trade. Yet, the lack of timely snow clearance and road maintenance is disrupting the route, undermining the goals of CPEC.
Despite past agreements aimed at transforming the KKH into an all-weather route, meaningful execution has been lacking. This year, authorities have announced plans to finally implement measures to ensure year-round connectivity. However, the existing state of road maintenance raises doubts about their effectiveness and commitment.
For Aman Ullah, a resident and trader from Gojal, Hunza, the snowbound Karakoram Highway is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a daily struggle that threatens his livelihood. “We are often left stranded for days, with no way to continue our trade,” he shared with The Karakoram.
Aman explained, “A few years ago, the Chinese government donated four state-of-the-art snow-clearing machines to the FWO for winter maintenance of the Khunjerab Border and nearby sections of the KKH. These advanced machines, equipped with computerized systems, were intended to ensure safe travel and uninterrupted trade. However, only one of these machines remains operational today, and even that is reportedly in poor condition. Instead of effectively clearing the snow, it often leaves the road even worse, making travel difficult. The fate of the other three machines remains unknown, raising serious concerns about mismanagement and a lack of accountability.”
The poor state of snow clearing operations has caused a worrying rise in road accidents, Tufail Ahmed, the owner of a transport company whose vehicles frequently travel to China via the KKH, shared his frustrations. Stranded vehicles have become a common sight, with travelers risking their lives in freezing temperatures,” he said.
Abdur Rehman, an import-export trader from Gilgit-Baltistan, highlighted the contrast between the two sides, adding, “In stark contrast, the Chinese side of the Khunjerab Pass ensures the road remains well-maintained and operational during winter. Advanced machinery and a proactive approach demonstrate their commitment to maintaining seamless connectivity. This disparity reflects poorly on Pakistan’s preparedness and raises questions about the efficiency of NHA and FWO.”
Dr. Faqeer Muhammad, Director of the China Study Centre in Gilgit-Baltistan, emphasized the broader implications, stating, “The KKH is more than just a road—it’s a vital trade corridor that plays a key role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); it is a symbol of connectivity, trade, and opportunity. Neglecting its maintenance during winter risks undermining Pakistan’s economic and strategic interests, calling for immediate attention from the authorities.” Its maintenance is critical not just for trade but for the broader economic and strategic objectives of CPEC.
This neglect not only puts lives in danger but also hampers trade activities, creating significant bottlenecks for transportation linked to CPEC.
Residents and stakeholders are demanding urgent action to address these issues. Effective utilization of resources, transparent accountability for the missing machinery, and better coordination between authorities are imperative. Maintaining the KKH as a safe and reliable trade route is not just a regional necessity; it is a cornerstone of CPEC and a matter of national importance.
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Gilgit-Baltistan enthusiastically celebrated its 77th Liberation Day on November 1st, 2024. A public holiday was declared in all ten districts, and various events were organized to commemorate the occasion.
The main event was held at Yadgar Shuhada Chinar Bagh, where Governor Syed Mehdi Shah, Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan, and Commander FCNA Major General Syed Imtiaz Hussain Gilani unfurled the national flag. Provincial ministers, the Chief Secretary, the IG Police, and other senior officials also attended the ceremony. Floral tributes were paid to the martyrs, and the armed forces of the GB Police presented a salute.
Governor Syed Mehdi Shah emphasized the sacrifices made by the Gilgit-Baltistan Scouts, the region’s forefathers to liberate it from Dogra rule. He also acknowledged the sacrifices of the martyrs and reaffirmed the commitment to national security.
A special Independence Day ceremony was organized at the Army Helipad, where high-ranking civil and military officials participated. For the first time in Gilgit-Baltistan’s history, the 77th Independence Day Parade was telecast live on national channels, including Gilgit-Baltistan PTV. Many people viewed the parade live at Wahab Shaheed Ground and Lalak Jan Shaheed Ground.
Commander 10 Corps Lieutenant General Shahid Imtiaz highlighted the significance of Gilgit-Baltistan’s freedom, achieved through the courage and sacrifice of its people. He emphasized the region’s enduring loyalty to Pakistan.
Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan paid tribute to the region’s martyrs and expressed pride in the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. He also acknowledged the pivotal role played by the Gilgit-Baltistan Scouts, a force with a rich history dating back to the British Raj. Their courage and sacrifice were instrumental in securing the region’s freedom from Dogra rule. Alongside the local populace, the Scouts fought valiantly against the Dogra forces and ultimately achieved victory.
The Independence Day Parade featured troops from the NLI Center, GB Scouts, Women Police, GB Police, Punjab Rangers, Cadet College Skardu, and Cadet College Chilas. The celebrations also included paragliding performances and cultural programs, featuring national and regional patriotic songs as well as local dances.
Similar celebrations were held in all districts of Gilgit-Baltistan, with cultural programs, flag hoisting ceremonies, and tributes to martyrs. The Pakistan Army played a significant role in organizing these events and broadcasting special programs.
As Gilgit-Baltistan commemorates its 77th Liberation Day, it reaffirms its commitment to national unity and prosperity. The region’s rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty continue to attract visitors from around the world. With its strategic location and abundant resources, Gilgit-Baltistan is poised to play a vital role in Pakistan’s development and progress.
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March 15, 2023 at 11:17 am
I needed to thank you for this wonderful read!! I certainly enjoyed every bit of it. I have you saved as a favorite to look at new things you postÖ