ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Authorities in Gilgit-Baltistan have taken action against a hotel near the popular Attabad Lake following a viral video by a foreign travel vlogger alleging environmental pollution. The video, which sparked widespread public concern, led to a surprise inspection, a monetary fine, and the sealing of parts of the hotel.
Viral Video Sparks Environmental Concerns
The controversy erupted after British travel vlogger George Buckley shared footage from his visit to Attabad Lake, where he claimed to have witnessed signs of untreated sewage being discharged into the lake. In the video, Buckley pointed to murky water, a foul odor, and cited a local resident who suggested sewage pollution was the cause.
The footage quickly went viral on social media, triggering an outcry from environmentalists, tourists, and concerned citizens. Many called for immediate intervention to protect the lake’s ecosystem.
Official Response and Penalties Imposed
In response, the Gilgit-Baltistan Environment Department and the deputy commissioner of Hunza conducted a spot inspection of the hotel, which was identified as Luxus Hunza. Officials discovered damaged manholes and sewage infrastructure issues, prompting the administration to seal specific rooms and impose a fine of Rs1.5 million.
The hotel was also issued a notice to upgrade its sewage and waste management systems within a week, in compliance with local environmental standards.
Hotel Denies Allegations, Cites Natural Causes
Luxus Hunza responded to the allegations via Instagram, firmly denying any involvement in polluting the lake. In a statement, the hotel said, “We strongly deny these baseless allegations. This is a serious misinterpretation of natural phenomena.”
The resort attributed the discoloration in the lake water to glacial silt — fine sediments naturally carried by mountain streams — rather than sewage. “Adjacent water streams coming from the mountains have natural sediments like mud, rocks, and minerals,” the post read. “This phenomenon is called confluence, where two water bodies meet, leading to cloudy water appearance.”
The hotel emphasized that it has adhered to environmental protocols since its inception, including conducting an environmental impact survey before opening. “Our operations are fully sustainable and eco-friendly,” the resort added.
Vlogger Doubles Down on Claims
In response to the hotel’s explanation, Buckley criticized the lack of recent documentation. He claimed that the only environmental report provided was from July 2021 and stated, “I’ve asked three times to see an inspection report after that date… yet you have provided nothing.” He also reiterated that the smell at the site was distinctly that of sewage, not something caused by glacial runoff.
