19/08/2025
Gilgit-Baltistan Students’ Association (GBSA) MUST University AJK PAK
We, the members of the Gilgit-Baltistan Students’ Association (We GBSA) stand in deep concern and solidarity with the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and the wider northern regions of Pakistan who are currently suffering due to devastating floods. These recurring natural disasters are no longer isolated incidents – they are the result of systemic neglect, poor climate resilience planning, and a lack of sustainable policy from both the provincial and federal governments.
Entire communities in Gilgit-Baltistan have been cut off from essential services, homes have been destroyed, livelihoods lost and lives disrupted. The people of our region cannot continue to suffer while policy inaction, bureaucratic delays and lack of infrastructure investment continue year after year.
We Demand Immediate and Long-Term Action:
1. Emergency Relief Measures:
lImmediate mobilization of rescue, medical, and relief teams to all flood-affected areas.
Establishment of emergency shelters and food distribution centers.
Restoration of road and communication networks on a priority basis.
2. Policy Development for Climate Resilience:
A comprehensive Flood Management and Mitigation Policy specifically tailored to the topography and climate of Gilgit-Baltistan and other northern areas.
Investment in early warning systems, weather monitoring, and community training on climate adaptation.
Implementation of climate-resilient infrastructure, especially in vulnerable valleys and riverbanks.
3. Inclusion of Local Voices:
Involve local experts, community leaders, students, and youth organizations in policy-making processes.
Establish platforms where local communities can report climate risks and needs directly to government bodies.
4. Transparent Resource Allocation:
Ensure transparency and accountability in the disbursement of funds meant for flood rehabilitation.
Monitor NGO and government activities to prevent misuse and ensure aid reaches the intended recipients.
5. Federal Responsibility:
The Government of Pakistan must recognize its constitutional and moral responsibility toward Gilgit-Baltistan.
Ensure equitable distribution of climate adaptation funds and international aid to our region.
The youth of Gilgit-Baltistan will no longer stay silent. We refuse to watch our homeland wash away while the state turns a blind eye. This is not just about emergency response — it is about climate justice, regional equity, and human dignity.
We urge the Gilgit-Baltistan Government and the Federal Government of Pakistan to act now — not tomorrow, not next year, but ! Failure to do so will only further alienate a region that has long stood loyal and proud, but tired of being neglected in times of need.
