On Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directive, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has declared mountain tourism dangerous during the ongoing monsoon spell, issuing a strong travel advisory to citizens. The advisory warns that travel to hilly and tourist regions under current weather conditions is unsafe and potentially life-threatening.
The NDMA cautioned that Section 144—which restricts public movement—may be imposed to prevent unnecessary travel to disaster-prone areas. Law enforcement agencies have been instructed to enforce all restrictions strictly. Citizens are urged to avoid travel, monitor weather updates, and take precautions based on local advisories.
This comes as northern Pakistan reels from the impact of torrential rains, flash floods, and cloudbursts that have left a trail of destruction in their wake.
Over 300 Dead as Floods Ravage Northern Pakistan
More than 300 lives have been lost due to flash floods and cloudbursts across northern Pakistan, with Buner district suffering the worst—reporting over 184 deaths in just two days. Other badly affected regions include Shangla, Swat, Bajaur, Battagram, and Mansehra, with entire villages submerged, homes destroyed, and thousands displaced.
Authorities have declared Buner, Bajaur, Battagram, and Mansehra as calamity-hit districts due to the widespread devastation.
Looking ahead, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast more heavy rainfall and thunderstorms from August 17 to 21, with Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, KP, Punjab, Islamabad, Sindh, and Balochistan all expected to be affected. The risk of urban flooding, landslides, and overflowing rivers remains high.
Tourists have been strongly advised to postpone travel to high-altitude destinations, while local administrations have been directed to implement preventive and emergency response measures without delay.
