ISLAMABAD: Heavy snowfall and extreme cold have severely disrupted life across Pakistan’s northern regions, cutting off roads, damaging power infrastructure, and leaving hundreds stranded, officials said .
Several feet of snow have fallen across parts of Azad Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Authorities reported blocked highways, power outages, and multiple landslides and avalanches.
The Pakistan Army and civil administration have launched large-scale rescue and relief operations in affected areas.
Azad Kashmir Hit Hard
Intense snowfall has paralyzed daily life across Azad Kashmir since late Thursday. Roads remain closed in Neelum Valley, Upper Neelum, Athmuqam, Sudhanoti, Bagh, and Hattian Bala.
In Haveli district, heavy snow trapped around 25 vehicles, including an ambulance. Nearly 100 people, including women and children, were stranded.
Army Rescues Stranded Passengers
Following distress calls, Pakistan Army units launched an immediate rescue operation. Troops evacuated 32 passengers and shifted them to safe locations despite harsh weather conditions.
Rescue teams also recovered two bodies from a stranded ambulance. Relatives praised the army for its swift response.
Rare Snowfall in Muzaffarabad
Muzaffarabad recorded snowfall after several years, sharply increasing cold conditions. In Neelum Valley, heavy snow collapsed two houses. No casualties were reported.
Key highways closed due to snow and landslides, creating severe difficulties for local residents.
Power Supply Disrupted
Snowfall and strong winds damaged power infrastructure across Azad Kashmir. Electricity poles collapsed, and transmission lines snapped at multiple locations.
Several areas have remained without power for more than 24 hours. Officials said repair work would begin once weather conditions improve.
Tourist Entry Restricted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Intermittent snowfall continued in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa districts. Roads in Kaghan Valley closed, prompting authorities to ban tourist entry.
Officials stopped incoming tourists at Balakot to prevent accidents.
Road Closures in Dir, Kumrat, and Lowari Tunnel
Heavy snowfall blocked roads in Upper Dir, Kumrat Valley, and the Lowari Tunnel. Vehicles remain unable to move due to ice and slippery conditions.
Authorities warned of possible shortages of essential supplies in isolated areas.
Snowfall After Years in Malakand
Malakand district witnessed snowfall after several years. Falling temperatures accompanied the rare weather event.
Trees collapsed onto roads under the weight of snow and strong winds, disrupting traffic. Authorities launched clearance operations.
Rescue Operations in Khyber and Shangla
Rescue teams evacuated stranded residents in Khyber district and relocated them to Painda Cheena School and a nearby hostel. Officials provided temporary shelter and basic facilities.
In Shangla Top, rescue teams saved four tourists who remained trapped in snow for 22 hours.
Karakoram Highway Closed in Gilgit-Baltistan
Conditions worsened in Gilgit-Baltistan as heavy snowfall and landslides shut multiple sections of the Karakoram Highway in Chilas and Upper Kohistan.
The closure stranded hundreds of passengers and cargo vehicles. Supply chains for essential goods were also disrupted.
Astore Cut Off From Rest of Country
Life ground to a halt in Astore district after heavy snowfall severed all land routes. Snow accumulation reached five to six feet in Rama Meadows, Deosai, Nanga Parbat, and Burzil Top.
An avalanche blocked roads at Musharraf Chowk. Authorities called in heavy machinery to clear the route.
Hunza, Nagar, and Chipurson Face Severe Conditions
Road closures in Hunza and Nagar left residents struggling to access supplies. In Chipurson Valley, earthquake-affected families living in tents faced extreme cold and continuous snowfall.
Also Read: Heavy Snowfall Strands Tourists, Shuts Roads, Paralyses Life in Northern Pakistan
Relief agencies are considering alternative routes and air support to deliver essential supplies.
Authorities Issue Travel Warnings
District administrations, rescue services, and the Pakistan Army remain on high alert across affected regions. Authorities urged residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and follow official advisories.
The Meteorological Department warned that snowfall and freezing temperatures may continue in upper regions over the coming days, potentially worsening the situation.
