All hope lost: GB authorities call off search in Babusar flood tragedy

After two relentless weeks of rescue efforts, authorities in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) have officially ended the search operation in Thak Nullah, a flood-ravaged area of Babusar in Diamer district.

The decision marks a somber conclusion to one of the region’s most heartbreaking natural disasters in recent memory.

The announcement was made by GB government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq, who confirmed that all individuals swept away by the devastating flash floods are now presumed dead.

“All hopes of finding the missing persons alive have ended,” he stated solemnly.

Among the missing is TV anchor Shabana Liaqat, who vanished along with her husband, children, and several others during the catastrophic deluge. Despite extensive rescue efforts, no trace of the victims has been recovered.

The tragedy unfolded earlier this month when torrential rains triggered violent flash floods in the mountainous Babusar region. In a matter of moments, fast-moving water swept away vehicles, homes, and entire families. Rugged terrain and volatile conditions severely challenged even the most determined rescue teams.

Read more: One-way traffic resumes after Babusar Highway partially reopened

The joint operation—comprising local authorities, volunteers, and emergency personnel—has now been formally concluded, with all teams and equipment withdrawn.

In a show of solidarity, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in the region today to assess the damage and offer support to the affected communities. He met with local officials and families, reaffirming the government’s commitment to provide relief and rehabilitation.

In the absence of recoverable bodies, families and communities have begun offering ghaibana namaz-e-janaza (funeral prayers in absentia)—a symbolic gesture of farewell and acceptance.

The Babusar flood disaster has left a trail of shattered lives and unanswered prayers. For those who have lost loved ones, closure comes not with recovery, but with remembrance.