Landslide-hit people of Hunza: Kaira lauds China for agreeing to open up Sust border

Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Qamar Zaman Kaira on Saturday appreciated government of China for agreeing to open its Sust border with Pakistan to facilitate timely provision of goods and fuel to the landslide-affected population of Hunza.
Talking to media persons, he said this gesture of the Chinese government is another milestone of our time-tested friendship and would further strengthen the historical bonds between the two countries. Qamar Zaman Kaira, who is also Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan, said "Government of Pakistan is grateful to China for recognising the need of our people at this time of urgency and for its touching gesture of humanitarian help."
Due to a massive landslide in Attabad village of Hunza on January 4, the entire village was swept into Indus River. About three kms of the main Karakoram Highway was blocked due to the landslide. The road blockage, being on the main communication artery of the area, is hindering relief and rescue effort from the south. Apart from air-lifting, there is no alternative means to transport basic amenities, fuel and other necessities to the people of the area as they face the bitter winter season.
On initiative of Governor Gilgit-Baltistan, a huge consignment of relief goods was airlifted by helicopters to the area recently. Although underway, the operation is currently suspended due to bad weather. The only available road link to the area is from the northern part of Karakoram Highway coming from Sust border with China that is presently closed. He informed that the Chinese government has agreed to open the Sust route in the next few days.