GILGIT: A group of students from Baltistan Students Federation (BSF) Karakoram International University (KIU) chapter has embarked on a protest march from Gilgit to Skardu, pressing for the construction of tunnels along the treacherous Shahra-e-Baltistan.
The walk, which began from Nad-e-Ali Chowk, is aimed at raising awareness about the urgent need for safer travel routes to prevent recurring accidents on the road.
The 167-kilometre-long road has long been a source of concern due to frequent landslides and unsafe road belts, resulting in numerous accidents and road blockages. Vehicles often fall into the Indus River, which flows below, causing tragic loss of life and property. Dozens of people die in accidents on the road every year, particularly during the rainy season, when landslides, slippery conditions, and hydro-meteorological hazards exacerbate the danger.
Despite the much-publicized upgrade of the road inaugurated by then-prime minister Imran Khan on December 16, 2021, safety concerns persist. The upgraded road was widened from 3.6 meters to 7.3 meters, reducing the travel time between Gilgit and Skardu from 10 hours to just four. However, critical components, such as the construction of tunnels and realignment of the road, were excluded from the final project. Consequently, the risk of road closures and landslide-induced accidents remains high.
Recent incidents underscore the urgency of the students’ demands. On December 14, a vehicle traveling from Skardu to Shengus was struck by a landslide, killing five people. Earlier in July, a car carrying tourists plunged into the Indus River in Roundu Valley, claiming the lives of three people, including a child, and injuring three others.
Speaking to HUM News English, BSF KIU President Shehbaz Sharif stated that their single demand is clear: “Build Tunnels, Save Lives.” He added, “We are a group of 10 to 12 students, and we are determined to complete this march and achieve our goal, InshaAllah.”
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The initiative has garnered widespread support from the local community. Senior leaders of BSF and a large number of Skardu residents are preparing to welcome the marchers at Yadgar Chowk, Skardu. As part of the campaign, participants from Skardu will also undertake a symbolic walk to Rondu to demonstrate unity and solidarity with the cause.
According to the protesters, the original design of the Jaglot-Skardu Road included the construction of eight tunnels to bypass areas prone to landslides, avalanches, and other natural hazards. However, they allege that these tunnels were removed from the final plan without explanation, leaving the road vulnerable to frequent accidents.
“Since the completion of the road, hundreds of lives have been lost in tragic accidents. Dangerous bends and unstable sections of the road were not addressed as per international standards. The decision to use uncontrolled blasting instead of safer excavation methods during construction has further weakened the terrain,” said BSF senior leader Asif Naji.
Naji also highlighted the challenges faced during construction, such as inadequate safety measures and substandard road alignment. “The original plan aimed to meet international standards, but cost-cutting measures compromised safety. Essential elements, like proper road seating and hazard mitigation, were neglected, leading to recurring accidents.”
Students emphasized that implementing the proposed tunnels would significantly enhance safety and reduce the risks of accidents, saving countless lives. The campaign is set to conclude with a reception at Yadgar Chowk in Skardu, where students will be honored for their efforts. Protesters are hopeful that their cause will draw the attention of policymakers and bring about the much-needed changes to make the road safer for all travelers.