Diamer: An artificial lake has formed near Kankoi in the Niyat Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan’s Diamer district after increased glacier melting triggered flooding in a local stream, according to reports.
The incident occurred in the Karliu Gah area of Niyat Valley, where melting glaciers caused water levels in a stream to rise. The water subsequently accumulated in a low-lying area near Kankoi, forming an artificial lake.
Several kanals of farmland and standing crops have been submerged, resulting in significant losses for local residents and destroying a year’s worth of agricultural work.
Residents say large cracks have appeared in the glacier, raising concerns about the possibility of further glacier breakage and flooding. They have urged the government to take immediate precautionary and protective measures.
Diamer Assistant Commissioner Manzoor Ahmed Payam said residents have been advised to stay away from the lake. He added that the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA) has been informed and directed to take immediate action.