Islamabad: Pakistan’s northwestern regions experienced its snowfall of the season this week with snowflakes fluttering as temperatures dip below zero degrees.
Pakistani tourists rushed to the Kalam and Swat valleys after about half a foot of snow blanketed much of the region.
The children in warm winter clothing were seen building snowmen and having snowball fights as adults enjoyed the scenic views of snow-covered hills with a hot cup of tea and samosas.
Families also enjoyed skiing, snowboarding resort and riding the chairlift at Malam Jabba ski resort in Swat which offers a range of winter recreational activities.
The first snowfall in Pakistan’s Swat valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province attracted crowds of tourists from nearby cities including Islamabad, Peshawar, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. Malam Jabba, Gabin Jabba, and Kalam Valley, which are known for lush greenery turned white, prompting locals and tourists to make the most of the winter wonderland.
However, the cold and snow made living conditions tough for people living in the far-off regions where there is no electricity and gas due to which locals are forced to rely on wood stoves for cooking and heating.
Cold and dry weather forecast
In its latest weather advisory, Pakistan Met Office said “cold and dry weather is expected in most parts of the country” with light rain and light snow over hills expected in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, Kashmir, and surrounding areas. Kalam recorded minus 4 degrees Celsius, Babusar minus 3, and Skardu minus 2.
Swat deputy commissioner Junaid Khan said that they have deployed heavy machinery on the roads to continually clear snow and keep the roads open for traffic. The local authorities have also set up two control rooms in Nathiagali and Changlagali for tourist information and assistance. The snowfall also blocked several links roads in the far-off mountainous areas.
Authorities on alert
The city authorities and police in the northern region have issued a driving advisory for tourists driving to Murree Hills. Police urge drivers to be extra cautious on roads after the tragic deaths in Murree last year in a snowstorm.
Police have strictly asked tourists to come fully prepared by storing extra fuel, charged batteries, tow and snow chains, warm clothes, and food. Visitors have also been asked to be extra careful while snapping selfies and checking the weather conditions before travelling. Meanwhile, the visitors have urged authorities to improve food and lodging standards and keep a check on the local tourism industry.
