Published on: September 1, 2025 2:01 PM
A massive landslide struck near Hassa in Balakot, Mansehra district, on Monday, when a large portion of a mountain broke away, crashing onto the road and spreading panic among residents.
The heavy landslide completely blocked the road, halting all traffic in the area. Local commuters and travelers were stranded until authorities could respond and clear the debris from the highway.
National Highway Authority (NHA) machinery promptly arrived at the site, and restoration efforts are underway. Meanwhile, traffic has been diverted to alternate routes to ensure continued movement for commuters and emergency services.
The incident follows a Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecast warning of thundershowers and landslide risks in northern and northeastern regions, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galiyat, and Azad Kashmir, over the next few days.
Meteorological officials also warned of increased risks of glacier lake outburst floods (GLOF) and flash floods due to unusually high temperatures in valleys such as Arkari, Bad Swat, Darkut, Hispar Hopper, Gandus, and Gulkin.
Experts fear rapid glacier melting could trigger sudden floods in vulnerable areas. Communities living near glacier lakes have been urged to remain alert, adopt precautionary measures, and follow guidance from local authorities.
The landslide comes just weeks after floods and landslides struck Babusar Top in Gilgit-Baltistan on August 14, damaging houses and farmlands, injuring a child, and blocking the main road at multiple points.
