Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has declared three men from Gilgit-Baltistan as national heroes for their bravery during a recent disaster in Ghizer district. The men Wasit Khan, Ansar and Muhammad Khan saved nearly 300 people from a dangerous Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF).
Among them was a local shepherd whose quick action and timely warning helped the community evacuate before the flood destroyed their homes.
The Prime Minister announced that these heroes will soon be invited to Islamabad, where they will be given a special award in recognition of their courage. He praised their sense of duty and responsibility, saying that their actions set a great example for the entire nation.
This incident has once again shown how important local knowledge and community vigilance can be in saving lives. Unfortunately, the government-installed early warning systems in the area failed to work properly, exposing serious weaknesses in disaster preparedness. Without the alert given by these men, the loss could have been unimaginable.
According to local officials, Roshan village was completely submerged by the flood. Families lost their livestock and many of their belongings, but thanks to the quick response of the three men, no human lives were lost.
The recognition of these individuals comes at a time when Pakistan is facing increasing challenges from climate change, including rising glacial melt and frequent floods. Their bravery is not only a source of pride but also a reminder of the need for stronger disaster management systems to protect vulnerable communities in the future.
