Heavy gold mining along Gilgit-Baltistan’s rivers is accelerating erosion, threatening farmland, bridges and ecosystems, while residents and experts urge authorities to strengthen regulations and protect vulnerable communities.
WEBDESK – ABDUL REHMAN SHAHEER – MEDIABITES NEWS
Heavy Mining Raises Environmental Concerns
The rapid expansion of machine-based gold mining along the Indus River in Gilgit-Baltistan is raising serious environmental concerns. Residents say heavy machinery has accelerated riverbank erosion, damaging farmland and increasing risks to nearby communities. Environmental experts warn that the fragile mountain ecosystem could suffer irreversible damage if mining continues without stricter oversight.
Residents Fear Loss of Livelihoods
Local farmer Baqar Hussain from Hunza says his agricultural land has been steadily washed away since large-scale mining operations began near the riverbanks. According to community representatives, dozens of kanals of fertile farmland have already disappeared due to erosion. Villagers in Hunza and Nagar have launched protests, demanding immediate government action to stop environmentally harmful mining activities.
Authorities Warn of Wider Risks
Government departments have also expressed concern over the impact of mining near major bridges and infrastructure. Official reports warn that continuous excavation may weaken bridge foundations, alter the natural flow of the Indus River, and increase sediment accumulation in reservoirs. WAPDA has cautioned that excessive silt could reduce the storage capacity and operational lifespan of major hydropower projects, including the Diamer-Bhasha and Tarbela dams.
Government Promises New Regulations
The Environmental Protection Agency has highlighted additional threats, including increased flood risks, landslides, habitat destruction, and damage to forests and glaciers. Officials acknowledge that monitoring illegal mining remains difficult due to limited resources and manpower. The Gilgit-Baltistan government says it is preparing a new regulatory framework that will permit machine-based mining only in areas where it does not endanger local communities, infrastructure, or the environment. Authorities also plan to involve traditional gold-mining communities in future policies while strengthening environmental safeguards. Residents, however, insist that urgent action is needed before further damage is done to one of Pakistan’s most environmentally sensitive regions.
