The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has raised concerns over an impending wave of rain and snowfall in the province, scheduled to occur from February 25 to 27.
Anticipating potential landslides in the upper regions due to expected intermittent snowfall and rain, the PDMA issued a comprehensive alert to all relevant departments.
This advisory comes at a crucial time when winter tourism is flourishing in the upper areas of KP. Tourists have been flocking to the picturesque valleys of Galiyat, Kaghan, Swat, and Malam Jabba, enticed by the chilly weather prevalent in KP.
The consequences of heavy snowfall were already evident on February 19, with numerous roads and bypasses in the northern areas, including Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, being blocked.
Shandur Pass in the Ghizer district of Gilgit Baltistan, a popular tourist destination, reported an accumulation of over two feet of snow in the last 24 hours, intensifying the wintry landscape.
Taking proactive measures, PDMA Director General Imran Qureshi issued a warning to all departments on February 21 in anticipation of heavy rainfall, storms, and increased snowfall.
As people plan visits to tourist spots in Murree, Galyat, and surrounding areas towards the end of February, Qureshi emphasized the importance of tourists considering prevailing weather conditions for their travel plans and prioritizing safety in the midst of natural challenges.
