NDMA Airlifts Tourists from Gilgit via C130 amid Monsoon. 13 killed in 24 hours; fresh alerts issued as monsoon intensifies in Pakistan.
As monsoon rains intensify across Pakistan, triggering widespread flooding, landslides, and road blockages, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has launched emergency air evacuation operations in the northern regions. One of the most urgent initiatives is the airlift of stranded tourists from Gilgit-Baltistan using a Pakistan Air Force (PAF) C-130 aircraft. This mission, scheduled for Thursday, July 24, is part of NDMA’s swift crisis management strategy designed to respond to natural disasters with minimal delay. The Gilgit-Baltistan region has been significantly impacted due to its mountainous terrain and limited road connectivity, which worsens during monsoon season. By deploying military aircraft capable of high-altitude operations, NDMA ensures rapid and safe evacuation in inaccessible areas. Local authorities confirmed that the operation is being coordinated through the office of the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Gilgit, which is collecting identification data to finalize the flight manifest.
Evacuation Flight: Required Details | NDMA Airlifts Tourists from Gilgit via C130 amid Monsoon
All individuals—both local and foreign—who wish to avail the NDMA evacuation must provide the following essential information: Full Name, Father’s or Husband’s Name, and National Identity Card (NIC) Number or Passport Number (for foreigners). These details must be submitted to the ADC Gilgit’s office at the earliest. For assistance, a dedicated emergency helpline has been activated by the local administration to answer queries, register names, and provide instructions to tourists. Priority will be given to vulnerable travelers, including women, children, elderly persons, and those requiring urgent medical care.
NDMA Monsoon Casualty Report: 13 Dead in 24 Hours
The NDMA also released a comprehensive monsoon damage report revealing that at least 13 individuals have died and 13 others have sustained injuries due to rain-related incidents over the past 24 hours. Punjab emerged as the most affected province, with 7 fatalities caused by incidents such as roof collapses, electrocution, and urban flooding. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) recorded 3 deaths, mainly due to landslides and flash floods in mountainous districts. Islamabad reported 2 casualties, primarily due to falling trees and collapsed residential structures. Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) reported one fatality. These figures are compiled and verified by NDMA’s disaster monitoring system, which uses real-time data feeds from local authorities and satellite surveillance.
NDMA Issues Fresh Rainfall Alerts Nationwide
As the monsoon system continues to strengthen, the NDMA, in coordination with the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), has issued a series of weather alerts. The advisory indicates that the intensity of rainfall is expected to increase over the next few days, particularly in northern mountainous regions such as Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral, Swat, and Neelum Valley. These areas are at high risk of landslides due to saturated soil and continuous rain. Urban centers like Lahore, Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Peshawar are also under alert for potential urban flooding due to poor drainage and heavy runoff. Citizens in low-lying regions are urged to move to higher ground, store emergency supplies, and closely follow official advisories.
Government Mobilization and Relief Efforts Underway
NDMA’s response is not limited to evacuation efforts alone. The authority is actively engaged in nationwide relief operations through partnerships with Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), armed forces, and civil administration. Emergency medical units have been deployed in high-risk areas, while mobile rescue teams equipped with boats and stretchers are operating in flood-hit zones. Relief camps with tents, dry food, water, and basic medicines have been established in districts of Punjab, KP, and Sindh. Special instructions have been issued to local governments to clear blocked roads using heavy machinery and ensure that essential supplies such as fuel and medicines are not disrupted.
C-130 Flight: A Strategic Move for Gilgit Evacuation
The deployment of the Pakistan Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft is a calculated and effective decision by NDMA. These aircraft are uniquely suited for rescue operations in rugged and mountainous terrain, offering both high payload capacity and short-runway landing capabilities. In disaster scenarios like the current one, the C-130 serves dual functions: not only transporting stranded individuals but also delivering essential equipment, medical teams, and emergency supplies. The decision to use military aviation reflects the seriousness of the situation in Gilgit-Baltistan, where many valleys and tourist hotspots have become completely isolated due to flooding and road erosion.
International Tourists Among Those Affected
A significant number of international tourists are currently stranded in locations such as Hunza, Naltar, and Skardu. Embassies have been informed, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively coordinating with NDMA and the Civil Aviation Authority to facilitate their safe return. Special briefings are being arranged for foreigners to ensure they receive real-time updates in English and have access to emergency communication channels. Tourism departments have also suspended all trekking, hiking, mountaineering, and camping permits until further notice. Hotels and guesthouses in the region have been instructed to accommodate stranded travelers at subsidized rates, and emergency food supplies are being delivered by local volunteers and NGOs.
Future Weather Outlook for Gilgit-Baltistan
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast that the current wave of monsoon rainfall in Gilgit-Baltistan is likely to persist until at least July 27. Intermittent moderate to heavy showers will continue, posing additional risks of landslides, flooding in tributaries of the Indus River, and the possible submergence of rural link roads. Temperature drops are also expected, particularly at higher elevations, increasing the risk of hypothermia among travelers and hikers camping outdoors. Authorities strongly recommend that tourists and transporters avoid travel to the region and cancel any planned trips until the weather stabilizes.
NDMA’s Broader Monsoon Management Strategy
As part of its Monsoon 2025 Preparedness and Response Plan, NDMA has implemented a comprehensive strategy that includes real-time monitoring of weather patterns using satellite-based systems and coordination with PMD. Relief stockpiles including tents, water purification tablets, and high-energy food rations have been distributed to district warehouses nationwide. A centralized digital dashboard accessible to federal and provincial stakeholders provides live updates on casualties, infrastructure damage, and logistics status. NDMA is also working with the National Highway Authority (NHA) to monitor landslide-prone routes and deploy response teams for clearing obstructions.
Public Awareness and Community Participation
Public awareness campaigns are also underway to educate citizens about emergency protocols. Television, radio, and SMS alerts are being used to share safety guidelines, while social media platforms are actively monitored to counter disinformation. Communities are being encouraged to form neighborhood safety units, check on vulnerable residents, and report any signs of structural weaknesses in buildings to the local authorities. School and college buildings are being converted into temporary shelters where needed, and volunteers are assisting with logistical support at local relief hubs.
Conclusion: NDMA Airlifts Tourists from Gilgit via C130 amid Monsoon
In conclusion, NDMA Airlifts Tourists from Gilgit via C-130 amid Monsoon stands as a vital case study in responsive disaster management. From coordinating air evacuations in difficult terrain to deploying a nationwide alert system and relief infrastructure, NDMA’s actions underscore the importance of readiness in the face of climate-induced emergencies. Tourists and residents are advised to stay calm, trust official sources for updates, and cooperate with all safety and evacuation protocols. As the monsoon season continues, coordinated efforts at every level—from national authorities to local volunteers—are critical in minimizing loss of life and property.
