A severe snowstorm has placed the Upper Swat Development Authority (USDA) on high alert.
According to officials, all leave has been cancelled on the instructions of the Secretary Tourism and the Director General of the Upper Swat Development Authority.
Emergency desks have been set up at various locations in the upper areas, a spokesperson for the authority said. Field staff, heavy machinery and the tourism police have been directed to remain ready to deal with any emergency situation.
Efforts to clear snow from main highways and tourist routes have been stepped up. The public and tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and to contact the helpline 1422 for assistance.
Snowstorm paralyses Murree; 3ft snowfall forces roads closure, tourist ban
On the other side, a severe snowstorm accompanied by up to three feet of snowfall has brought life in Murree to a near standstill, forcing authorities to close all entry routes and impose a ban on tourists amid worsening weather and safety concerns.
After an intense snowstorm in Murree, authorities recorded up to three feet of snowfall in several areas. Due to the influx of vehicles far exceeding the town’s capacity, all entry routes to Murree were closed.
The Islamabad–Murree bypass was also shut before Bara Kahu, but despite clear government warnings, many tourists continued heading toward the hill station.
