By Qazi Nashat Akram
SARGHUZ (Chitral), Jul 25, (APP):: The breathtaking Sarghuz Valley, where the rivers Yarkhoon and Laspur converge in Upper Chitral’s Tehsil Mastuj, now stands on the verge of catastrophic collapse. Once a symbol of natural beauty and harmony, the valley is today at the mercy of violent lateral erosion and unchecked riverbank cutting, fueled by intensifying climate events and deep-rooted institutional neglect.
Each summer, the valley braces for destruction as Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) swell the River Chitral’s volume and pressure. These climate-induced surges unleash unprecedented fury, wiping out everything in their path. Sarghuz, home to nearly 200 families filled with hopes, dreams, and contributions to society, now grapples with an existential threat. The swelling river, breaking away from its traditional path, turns toward the valley, devastating both land and livelihood.
The scale of devastation is immense. Agricultural lands that once sustained families are now submerged. Lush forests, blooming orchards, and cherished homes lie in the river’s destructive wake. Even cemeteries have not been spared—residents were recently forced to relocate a burial ground to save their forefathers’ resting place from being consumed by the river.
The absence of effective infrastructure and the continued negligence by government authorities have exacerbated the valley’s vulnerability. Inhabitants live under constant fear, watching helplessly as their land disappears before them. The main road connecting Sarghuz to the outside world has already been swallowed by the river. Now, the irrigation canal, electricity supply lines, and communication networks are at serious risk.
Local leaders and residents have repeatedly raised their voices, but their pleas continue to fall on deaf ears. Deep disappointment echoes throughout the valley. The community is frustrated by the lack of political attention and administrative action.
Despite these challenges, institutions like the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) have offered a ray of hope. Through the Aga Khan Rural Support Program (AKRSP) and the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH), substantial efforts have been made to counter climate-induced destruction. These organizations have invested millions of rupees in recent years to contain river overflow and construct protective infrastructure.
However, these efforts are often overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of fluvial force. Floodwalls and embankments fail to withstand repeated assaults from the swelling river, rendering mitigation measures ineffective. Moreover, the local committee entrusted with utilizing AKAH funds often lacks the technical expertise, engineering know-how, and experience required to build sustainable and lasting infrastructure. Reports of inefficiencies and financial embezzlement have surfaced, further eroding trust.
It is imperative for AKAH to enforce accountability, transparency, and effective monitoring at the grassroots level to ensure that its noble initiatives translate into lasting impact. Proper technical assistance, training, and oversight can prevent mismanagement and ensure that protective infrastructure stands firm against nature’s fury.
On the government’s side, the response has been largely dismal. Assistant Commissioner Mastuj, Mr. Afzal, admitted that the district administration lacks the capacity and sufficient funding to respond efficiently to such climate-induced emergencies. The glaring gaps in disaster preparedness and mitigation have left the valley exposed and vulnerable.
Miss Zaibun Nisa, a senior teacher at the Government Girls High School Mastuj and a long-time resident of Sarghuz, shared her anguish as the river now creeps dangerously close to her scenic home. Her case reflects the fear and uncertainty that grips every household in the valley.
Sardar Hakim, Chairman of the Local Government in Upper Chitral, expressed grave concern over the ecological threat posed by climate change. He underscored the urgency of government intervention, both federal and provincial, to build proper infrastructure and introduce climate-resilient planning in flood-prone regions like Chitral.
The crisis in Sarghuz is not an isolated tragedy, it reflects a global emergency. This valley has become a stark symbol of climate change’s unforgiving reach, a warning of what happens when urgent calls for action are ignored. Sustainable Development Goal 13 demands more than words; it calls for swift, united efforts to confront the climate crisis head-on.
What Sarghuz needs is not a bandage, but a blueprint, a bold, long-term strategy rooted in collaboration, education, resilience, and accountability. Governments, NGOs, and communities must rise together with purpose and urgency.
Without immediate intervention, Sarghuz Valley may be lost forever. Its struggle is a cry for help, but also a wake-up call. Climate change is not coming. It is here. And its impact is devastating.