The Express Tribune’s Post

Transcript

The picturesque Hunza Valley in northern Pakistan, Gilgit Baltistan province is home to a lively community with over six centuries of history. However, beyond the beauty that tourists experience in passing, Hunza and its people also face many ongoing challenges. Hunza, initially a princely stayed under British India subsidiary alliance from 1892 to 1947, later became a part of Pakistan from 1947 to 1974 in bordered the Gilgit Agency to the South, Xinjiang, China to the northeast. In Afghanistan to the northwest, Baltit, now known as Karimabad, served as its capital. In 1974, former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto dissolved the state, ending the rule of the mere monarchs. Today, it forms the Hunza district in the province of Gilgit Baltistan. Its current ruler, Mir Mohammad Ghazanfar Ali Khan, only holds a symbolic role, and Hunza itself is underrepresented in the National Assembly, leaving its people neglected and disheartened towards the government. However, they continue to maintain a vibrant way of life festivals. Natalino, the Silk Route Festival, Ginanni and Navroze offer insights into Hunzas rich heritage. These festivities coupled with traditional sports like polo and hiking further enriched the valleys dynamic lifestyle. Hunza is also home to a blend of languages including Burushaski, Sheena and Bahi. Alongside Urdu. Its people are predominantly Ismaili Shia Muslims, known for their conservatism and commitment to environmental preservation. With an average life expectancy of 100 years, the highest across the nation. The remarkable health of the people is attributed to their simple organic diet and access. Fresh glacial water along with minimal reliance on technology. Despite being termed backwards, Hunza's literacy rate is also the highest in Pakistan, exceeding 95%. It's women also hold notably high employment rates. Running businesses like the women LED Kabasi Cafe launched in 2012, which marked a significant breakthrough for the nation. However, the community also deals with constant dangers. Hunza Spectacular Attabad Lake was formed in 2010 by a devastating landslide that destroyed villages and displaced around 6000. People Despite clear warnings in 2009 from the National Disaster Management Authority and the Geological Survey of Pakistan, the government neglected to implement mitigation strategies, leaving affected communities in central Hunza and Gojal in upper Hunza, without rehabilitation or compensation. The people of Hunza are disregarded by authorities emphasizing the urgent need for systematic change and accountability. Without action, both the land and its people face grave consequences.