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Gilgit, Jan 31 (APP):The Government of Gilgit Baltistan continued relief and rehabilitation operations in Chipurson Valley of Upper Hunza following the earthquake that struck parts of the region on December 19.
According to official reports, three villages in Chipurson valley were immediately declared calamity hit after the quake to ensure a swift response and timely provision of emergency assistance. The earthquake, measuring between 5.6 and 5.8 on the Richter scale, was felt across Hunza, Ghizer and adjoining districts.
Chipurson Valley emerged as the worst affected area, where according to government’s initial reports, about 150 houses, 150 cattlesheds, six water channels and an under construction power project got damaged.
Chief Minister’s Spokesperson Shabbir Mir said the government responded promptly by placing all relevant departments on high alert. “Despite harsh weather conditions and difficult terrain, the Gilgit – Baltistan government ensured immediate medical assistance, road clearance and uninterrupted relief operations in the affected areas,” he said, adding that on the advice of Chief Minister Justice Retired Yar Mohammad, Minister for Home Sajid Baig, Minister for Forests Sharafuddin and Minister for Tourism visited the valley to assess the situation firsthand and meet affected residents.
He said road connectivity in Chipurson Valley was restored within 48 hours, restoring access up to the last village.
Shabbir Mir said the government was working closely with partner organizations to ensure sustained relief efforts. “Our focus extends beyond immediate assistance to a coordinated rehabilitation plan and ensuring the long term safety of affected communities,” he added.
On January 22, an army team visited Chipurson Valley and distributed relief items, including 3000 liters of kerosene oil, 15 tents, 100 sets of warm clothing and 100 ration packs. Each ration pack contained wheat flour, pulses, sugar, cooking oil, milk powder and tea.
Likewise, relief items distributed by the Gilgit – Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA) include 250 winterized tents, 250 food packs, 650 blankets, 250 hygiene kits, 300 kerosene heaters, 100 shawls, 45 kitchen sets, 900 bottles of drinking water and 150 milk pack cartons.
As part of emergency support, GBDMA is installing six bathing washrooms and six composting latrines in Zhudkhune, Timpani and Shitmirg villages to improve sanitation facilities for affected communities and relief workers. In addition, 72 fireballs have been provided as a fire safety measure for tent clusters to minimize fire risks during winter conditions.
“The government is ensuring all out support to people affected by the disaster,” the Chief Minister’s spokesperson said.