Humanitarian crisis looms over far-off Broghil valley

CHITRAL: A severe humanitarian crisis is unfolding in far-off Broghil valley due to government apathy, mismanagement and lack of attention.

Despite repeated appeals for aid over the past 25 days, the indifference of authorities has led to a growing sense of deprivation and despair among the dwellers of the valley, which is situated at an altitude of 14,000 feet near the Wakhan Corridor. The residents feared the region could witness a major humanitarian disaster if urgent action was not taken.

Many residents of Broghil have already begun migrating towards Yarkhun due to the severe shortage of food and fodder for their livestock. Speaking to the media, former Village Council Nazim of Broghil, Amin Jan Tajik, urged the government to take the crisis seriously. He demanded the immediate reopening of the Broghil Road and the urgent provision of food supplies and animal fodder to prevent further loss of lives and livestock. “The valley is currently covered in three to four feet of snow, and the road leading to Broghil has been blocked for the past four months due to heavy snowfall,” he added.

Amin Jan highlighted the dire condition of Broghil’s livestock, including the region’s famed yaks and other domestic animals, which were facing severe food shortages, putting their survival at risk.

He said the residents were also suffering from serious medical conditions, exacerbated by the lack of a basic healthcare facility. “There is no dispensary in the area, and essential medicines are unavailable. The extreme cold has led to the spread of respiratory diseases, affecting children, women and the elderly,” he added.

Amin Jan appealed to the government, the World Food Organisation, Aga Khan Agency for Habitat, and other humanitarian organisations to provide immediate relief. He also stressed the need for the urgent clearing of the Broghil Road to restore access to essential supplies and medical aid.