Attabad Lake: A Gem on the Karakoram Highway
In the heart of Hunza, nestled along the legendary Karakoram Highway, lies a breathtaking jewel known as Attabad Lake. This pristine oasis emerged from the aftermath of a massive landslide that struck on January 4, 2010. Although the catastrophe claimed lives and property, it also heralded a remarkable transformation in the region. Over time, Attabad Lake rose to fame and established itself as a premier tourist destination. It captivates the hearts of visitors from far and wide.
Discovering Attabad Lake’s Location
Attabad Lake is situated approximately 19 kilometers east of Karimabad in the enchanting Hunza region of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Perched along the Karakoram Highway, the lifeline connecting China and Pakistan, this natural wonder is just a three-hour drive from Gilgit. The lake makes it easily accessible to travelers seeking its beauty.
The Tale of Attabad’s Creation
The lake’s name, “Attabad,” bears witness to the valley of the same name, which was devastated to give birth to this stunning waterbody. It was the peak of winter when a colossal portion of the valley tumbled into the Hunza River. The event tragically claimed the lives of 20 residents, hundreds of livestock, and valuable land and property. This monumental a-kilometer-thick mudslide resulted in blockage of the river flow upstream along the Hunza River.
Over time, the obstructed river began to swell, forming a sprawling water reservoir. As a result, this reservoir submerged adjoining valleys upstream. Thus, it completely inundated Ayeenabad and engulfed 40% of the Shishkat Valley. Consequently, homes, shops, and hotels along the 19-kilometer stretch from Attabad to Hussani Village drowned. The consequences were dire with over 6,000 people displaced. Eventually, trade and travel along the Karakoram Highway were disrupted. At the same time, more than 25,000 residents in the Gojal region were affected severely.
Spill Over
In June 2010, approximately five months after the initial landslide, the Hunza River began to spill over the barrier. Swift action was taken with the assistance of the Frontier Works Organization (FWO) of the Pakistan Army to create an immediate spillway, reducing the water level. At that time, the lake stretched to a length of 21 kilometers with a depth of about 358 feet. As the waters receded, hope blossomed for the affected residents, revealing their land and property once more.
This catastrophic event disrupted communication systems, leaving the region’s people stranded for several months. The local business community suffered greatly. Likewise, tourists faced significant challenges during harsh winter conditions. Particularly, navigating the treacherous currents while traveling on open ferries or on foot was not an easy task.
For the region’s inhabitants, most of whom relied on selling local produce like crops, fresh fruit, and dry fruit, the disaster was twofold. Their productive land was lost, and the remaining produce couldn’t reach the market in a timely manner, resulting in substantial financial losses.
Rebuilding and Development
In the immediate aftermath, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) provided helicopter services to address the emergency, but this solution was not sustainable. Instead, manual boats were introduced, serving the community until the Karakoram Highway connection was restored in August 2015 through the construction of five long tunnels, overcoming the solid rock obstacles.
The introduction of speedboats catered to tourists, and local residents established various camping sites along the lake’s banks. Each passing year brought new developments, enhancing the experience for tourists and allowing them to make the most of their visit.
Attraction: Attabad Lake Today
Today, Attabad Lake stands as a favored tourist destination. It’s a 14-kilometer stretch of the Karakoram Highway that runs parallel to its shimmering waters. Travelers can revel in its multi-dimensional beauty from well-organized viewpoints along the highway, marveling at the deep blue waters framed by rugged mountains and lush valleys. The journey features a series of lengthy tunnels, picturesque bridges, and opportunities for water sports. famous ones include jet skiing, speedboats, and ferries providing every passerby with a joyous experience.
Local residents have embarked on the path of recovery, rebuilding their homes and businesses. Substantial investments are pouring into new infrastructure projects, all aimed at attracting and accommodating tourists. Beyond the lake’s serenity, the surrounding vistas, including the iconic Passu Cones, offer captivating sights. Meanwhile, views of the lake from the surrounding valleys and mountains are nothing short of breathtaking.
Accessible year-round via the main Karakoram Highway, Attabad Lake continues to evolve. With each passing year, new developments further enhance its allure. Consequently, it draws in more tourists than ever before. Whether you seek natural beauty, adventure, or tranquility, Attabad Lake has it all. New developments make it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.
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