Upper Hunza, Pakistan, 2010 — A temporary lake formed after glacial flooding reflects the surrounding mountains as local residents stand on the shoreline; boats were used to move civilians after road access was cut. © Mark Pearson
Part of a wider operational archive documenting infrastructure failure, 2001–2014.
In early 2010, glacial flooding in Upper Hunza, northern Pakistan, resulted in the formation of a temporary lake following a major landslide and ice melt event. Road access along the Karakoram Highway was severed, isolating multiple communities. Civilian movement and supply transport were conducted by boat across the flooded valley.
The material presented here documents conditions during the period of displacement and interim transport prior to infrastructure repair.
Upper Hunza, northern Pakistan, 2010 — Women wearing life vests issued by the Pakistani army check mobile phones while traveling by boat after glacial flooding cut road access to the region. Mobile phones were used to maintain contact and coordinate movement in an isolated, conflict-affected area. © Mark Pearson