Azad Kashmir: Heavy Snowfall Strands 22 Tourists in Pir Chinasi, Rescued by SDMA

Muzaffarabad: In the Neelum Valley’s Sharda area, a large ice block has fallen, blocking roads and severely disrupting traffic. In Azad Kashmir’s plains, continuous rainfall and persistent snowfall in the highland areas have ushered in a harsh winter season.

The heavy snowfall has brought a significant drop in temperatures across Azad Kashmir. In District Haveli and other regions, the ongoing rains and snowstorms have forced residents to remain indoors, as the cold intensifies throughout the state.

In some areas, adverse weather conditions have left tourists and travelers stranded. In a recent rescue operation at Pir Chanasi, the SDMA successfully rescued 22 tourists using four vehicles. According to SDMA Operations Director Saeed Qureshi, six of these tourists were from Jhelum district in Punjab, while the remaining individuals hailed from Muzaffarabad and Gujar Kohala. All rescued tourists were safely transported to Muzaffarabad.

Additionally, severe rains and snowfall in the Neelum Valley have compounded the difficulties faced by residents in the upper Neelum region. Many locals have been confined to their homes, further highlighting the challenges posed by the extreme weather.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have urged residents and travelers to exercise caution during this period of severe winter conditions.