Heavy Snowfall Disrupts Life Across Pakistan’s Upper Regions
Pakistan heavy snowfall has severely disrupted daily life in the country’s upper regions. Several feet of snow have blanketed Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan. As a result, authorities closed roads, suspended power supply, and warned people to avoid travel.
Officials reported landslides and avalanches at many locations. Hundreds of residents and travelers remain stranded. Therefore, the Pakistan Army and civil administration launched large-scale rescue and relief operations.
Roads Closed and Power Supply Hit
Heavy snowfall has paralysed normal life in many parts of Azad Kashmir. Roads in Neelum Valley, Upper Neelum, Bagh, Sudhnoti, and Hattian Bala remain blocked. In addition, snowfall in Muzaffarabad increased the cold after many years.
In Haveli district, heavy snow trapped around 25 vehicles, including an ambulance. Nearly 100 people, including women and children, were stranded. However, the Pakistan Army rescued 32 passengers despite harsh weather conditions.
During the rescue, officials also recovered two bodies from the ambulance. Families praised the army’s timely response. Meanwhile, heavy winds damaged power poles, leaving many areas without electricity for over 24 hours.
Rescue Operations Continue in Northern Areas
Intermittent snowfall continues across upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Authorities closed roads in Kaghan Valley and banned tourist entry. Traffic also remains suspended in Dir Upper, Kumrat, and the Lowari Tunnel due to slippery roads.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, conditions remain critical. Heavy snowfall and landslides closed parts of the Karakoram Highway. As a result, hundreds of passengers and cargo vehicles remain stranded.
In Astore, five to six feet of snow cut off land routes completely. Snow also blocked roads in Hunza and Nagar. In Chipurson Valley, families living in tents face extreme cold.Authorities remain on high alert. The Meteorological Department warned that snowfall may continue for several days.
