Gilgit-Baltistan’s dramatic mountains draw visitors from around the world. But the same geography that inspires awe also leaves many residents far from basic healthcare. The question of health is rapidly developing. For the nearly two million residents living across 732 remote villages, access to hospitals and specialist care often remains uncertain and expensive due to soaring inflation. In short, it is painful for citizens; coupled with the harsh climate, it fuels local resentments due to technical ignorance and bureaucratic sluggishness.

The problem is structural. Communities in Shigar, Khaplu, Kharmang, Roundu, Nagar, Darel, Tangir, and Astore are separated by long distances, fragile roads, and harsh winters. When a medical emergency occurs, patients sometimes travel hundreds of kilometres to reach major hospitals in Islamabad or Rawalpindi. For many families, the costs of travel, accommodation, and treatment can become overwhelming and unaffordable. Community houses in Rawalpindi and Lahore are crowded with patients. Furthermore, in extreme situations, Army helicopter rescues are used in areas such as Gultari, Shilla, Shigar, and Chorbat.

Healthcare in mountainous regions requires a different model of governance and service delivery. Traditional hospital-centred systems designed for urban populations cannot easily serve remote valleys where communities are dispersed, and transportation remains difficult. Gilgit-Baltistan’s health sector needs innovation, decentralisation, and stronger........

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