Melting glaciers of Gilgit Baltistan
May 21, 2025
This photo shows a waterfall formed by melting glacier water in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. During winter, this site is typically dry or only has a small stream in its place, but in the summer, the melting glacial ice creates a refreshing waterfall. However, we have noticed a significant growth in the pressure and volume of this waterfall in the past five years. This change is a direct consequence of rising global temperatures, which are causing glaciers to melt at an alarming rate. This change in flow creates high flood risks in the summer, potential landslides due to slope-cutting, and reduces freshwater availability for local communities. The intensity of these floods is expected to increase significantly, and the downstream plains are likely to experience further inundation due to higher water discharge as well.


