In light of the ongoing monsoon spell, the Tourism Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has issued a strict travel advisory for tourists from July 21 to 29, warning against unnecessary travel to vulnerable areas due to the heightened risk of flash floods, landslides, and overflowing rivers at popular tourist destinations.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has forecast that the current cycle of heavy rains will likely continue until July 31, further intensifying the threat in the region.
Speaking to Aaj News, Secretary Tourism Dr. Abdul Samad urged the public to take advisories seriously, stating:
“Despite repeated warnings, many tourists ignore safety advisories. The recent tragedy in Swat should serve as a wake-up call.”
Dr. Samad advised travelers to call helpline 1422 before embarking on any trip to assess real-time conditions.
He highlighted that on Lake Saif-ul-Muluk Road, a cloudburst-triggered landslide had blocked access, but timely intervention by the Kaghan Development Authority led to the successful rescue of over 500 stranded tourists.
In addition to the loss of life, 45 homes have been completely destroyed while 247 houses sustained partial damage due to landslides and flash floods.
The Tourism Department and PDMA have jointly appealed to the public to avoid riverbanks and hazardous zones, urging citizens to strictly comply with safety guidelines to prevent further casualties.
