Urgent Relief Efforts Deployed as Severe Winter Storms Hit Northern and Hilly Regions of Pakistan

In response to severe winter conditions affecting northern, northwestern, and hilly regions of Pakistan, including Balochistan and Azad Kashmir, authorities have initiated extensive relief efforts. The Pakistan Army has played a pivotal role in these operations, with units conducting prompt rescue missions and distributing essential supplies.

Residents and tourists in the high-altitude districts of Tirah Valley, Kotli, Nakyal, Galiyat, and Leepa Valley faced significant challenges due to heavy snowfall and rain. These conditions disrupted communication lines and blocked roads, causing vehicles to become immobilized and trapping individuals. The Pakistan Army swiftly intervened by evacuating stranded families, restoring key roads, and supplying vital items such as food, blankets, winter kits, emergency medical aid, and petrol for affected vehicles.

A notable rescue operation involved the airlift of a female patient from Leepa Valley to the Military Hospital in Rawalpindi. The mission demonstrated meticulous coordination at every stage, highlighting the Army’s commitment to saving lives under challenging circumstances. Additionally, three individuals were safely rescued by Rescue 1122 and QRF squads from the mountains around Siri Paya after a grueling eight-hour trek.

In the tourist areas of Galiyat, life was severely impacted due to snowfall blocking key roads, toppling electricity poles, and disabling mobile networks. Residents and tourists were stranded in hotels and homes with critical shortages of food, medicines, and firewood. The district administrations have intensified efforts to restore connectivity and ensure the safe return of visitors.

In Murree, although the heavy snowfall has ended, accumulated snow on rooftops remains a hazard. District authorities have issued strict safety guidelines, advising against dumping snow onto roads or pathways to prevent accidents, electrical disruptions, and property damage.

Widespread snow and rain in Balochistan have affected Gwadar, Kech, Khuzdar, Chagai, Awaran, and Quetta districts. Flash floods, slippery roads, and severe cold, with temperatures reaching as low as minus 8°C in Kalat, pose serious challenges to infrastructure and public safety.

In upper districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B), and Balochistan, authorities have focused on road clearance, relief distribution, and evacuation efforts. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued alerts warning of ongoing heavy snowfall, rain, landslides, avalanches, and flash floods until January 27.

Authorities in these regions are urging citizens to remain vigilant while traveling in mountainous areas and adhering to safety measures. Despite disruptions, winter tourism continues to thrive, with visitors flocking to scenic lakes, valleys, and snow-covered peaks. Authorities emphasize the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness and adhere to safety guidelines to ensure public welfare during this challenging season.