Muzaffarabad (PID)
State Disaster Management Authority Azad Kashmir has issued guidelines for tourists/travellers for winter season according to which travelers/tourists should regularly check Meteorological Department forecast for latest weather information before traveling to their desired destination. Check NDMA/SDMA’s web portal and social media handles (Twitter and Instagram), also consult concerned District Administration and Tourist Police for special warnings, Roads/Communications and Works (C&W) Department on their website before departure. But inquire about the road conditions, carry basic travel necessities (clean drinking water, dry food). Sufficient for the basic needs of all fellow passengers for a period of at least 24 hours, sick passengers carry daily medicines, tire chains in snowy areas. So that it can be used easily when required, ensure to follow the instructions issued by the Highway Department and Traffic Police/Tourist Police from time to time for safe travel, from the mechanic to ensure safety during the journey. Ensure proper vehicle checking and maintenance. Also carry spare tires (inflated), radiator fluid and lubricants as per the advice of the mechanic, all passengers must carry warm clothes with them. In order to be useful in cold weather, in air-conditioned vehicles, keep the windows slightly open for fresh air circulation, make proper accommodation arrangements in advance and make sure to book rooms in guest houses before departure. Make sure about the situation of the concerned area, the effect of the prevailing weather on the area and the condition of the road, be aware of rush hours to avoid traffic jams. Avoid unnecessary travel in hilly areas at night. Local administration/ Instructions are given to the hotel management to improve the monitoring mechanism in disaster prone areas with the help of local administration/hotel management/district disaster management authorities.Identify danger spots with the help of local community. In order to deal with any expected calamity. To prepare awareness campaign to prevent possible dangers and its spread in different areas. Keep machinery ready in potential dangerous areas in collaboration with the Roads Department and other subordinate departments. In order to avoid loss of precious lives, local administrations should assess additional resources and make immediate plans. Ensure adequate supply of medicines and related supplies and equipment according to the needs of different areas. And give priority to the most likely affected areas. Make adequate arrangements in advance for snow removal, street maintenance and food supplies for anticipated victims. Activate Tourist Convenience Centers at tourist spots. Plan properly for snow removal and traffic management where there is heavy tourist traffic. Local hotels and transport associations to facilitate tourists and locals in emergency situations. Liaise with agencies. Liaise with traffic police/tourist police for possible road closure hazards and guide travelers. Travelers and tourists should be warned in advance about the dangers posed by dangerous places. Emergency operation centers should be kept active to monitor the situation at the district level.
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